CHICAGO, Ill. — Despite a hard-fought battle, Chicago State (0-4-0, 0-0-0) showcased resilience and determination in their 2–1 loss to Alabama A&M (1-1-0, 0-0-0) on Thursday at Gwendolyn Brooks College Prep. The Cougars managed eight shots with three on target, while the goalkeeper made 10 saves to keep the match competitive.
The first half commenced with both teams actively seeking opportunities to score.
Sierra Sonko made an early save for CSU just 32 seconds into the match, setting a defensive tone. However, Alabama A&M found the net first with a goal by Jordyn Washington in the 12th minute, putting CSU behind.
CSU responded with determination, leveling the score at 1–1 in the 19th minute when
Ameerah Kolleff notched a goal, assisted by
Relani Williams. Despite this equalizer, Alabama A&M regained the lead shortly after with a goal by Czaske Deane in the 24th minute. The Cougars continued to press, but the first half closed with the score at 2–1 in favor of Alabama A&M.
The second half began with Chicago State pressing forward, as Kolleff attempted an early shot in the 45th minute and followed up with another in the 47th minute. Sonko was instrumental in maintaining the defensive stand, making multiple saves, including a crucial one against Ryan McLemore's shot in the 52nd minute.
Throughout the period, Chicago State continued to apply pressure, with
Raylin Watts testing the Alabama A&M goalkeeper in the 60th minute. Despite a series of fouls disrupting the flow, Sonko's goalkeeping kept the opposition at bay, saving shots from several Alabama A&M players, including Brea Bailey and Jordyn Washington.
In the final minutes, the Cougars' efforts yielded a corner kick in the 75th minute, with
Maria Frazier attempting a shot shortly after.
Dejanae Butler also aimed to close the gap with a late attempt in the 80th minute. However, as the period concluded, the score remained unchanged, with Chicago State trailing 2–1.
Sierra Sonko played a crucial role in goal, recording 10 saves against 16 shots faced.
Ameerah Kolleff contributed offensively by tallying a goal with her only shot on goal out of three attempts.
Relani Williams added an assist, contributing to the team's offensive efforts.
Alana Garcia managed to get one shot on goal from her single attempt.
Looking ahead, CSU is set to face IU Indy on Sunday, Aug. 30, at noon CT. The matchup will take place in Indianapolis, Indiana, as the Cougars take on their opponent on the road.
