The Vermont Catamounts men’s soccer team is on the verge of making history as they prepare for their first-ever NCAA College Cup semifinal appearance. Vermont (15-2-5) is set to clash with the third-seeded Denver Pioneers (15-3-4) this Friday at 5 p.m. at WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary, North Carolina. Fans can catch the action live on ESPNU and ESPN+, featuring commentary from Dalen Cuff, Devon Keer, and Marion Crowder.
Match Details and Ticket Information
Tickets for this historic showdown are still available at go.uvm.edu/cc24. Adding to the excitement, the UVM Alumni Association is hosting a pregame tailgate at 3 p.m. in Lot D, providing an opportunity for fans to rally together before the game. The winner of this highly anticipated match will advance to the National Championship Game on Monday, December 16, at 8 p.m., which will be broadcast on ESPN2. Meanwhile, the other semifinal will see top-ranked Ohio State face No. 13 Marshall in a battle for the remaining spot in the title game.
Watch Party in Burlington
For fans unable to travel to North Carolina, the Vermont Athletic Department is organizing an official watch party at Nectar’s Restaurant in downtown Burlington. Doors open at 4:30 p.m., offering complimentary food, Catamount-themed giveaways, and an exciting raffle featuring a team-signed jersey and passes to Smugglers’ Notch Resort. Supporters are encouraged to wear Green and Gold to show their unwavering support for the Catamounts.
Vermont’s Unforgettable Season
The Catamounts have cemented themselves as one of the nation’s elite programs with their remarkable performance this season. Over the last three years, Vermont has recorded nine NCAA Tournament wins—more than any other team during that period. They have outscored opponents 7-1 in the second halves of NCAA matches this season, highlighting their resilience and ability to perform under pressure.
Key Statistics
- Second-Half Strength: Over the last three NCAA seasons, Vermont has outscored opponents 16-5 in the second half.
- Extra-Time Excellence: The Catamounts have a perfect 3-0 record in extra-time matches.
- Undefeated Streak: Vermont, Denver, and Marshall are the only semifinalists yet to trail in the 2024 NCAA Tournament.
Vermont Catamounts men’s soccer (image via Getty)NCAA Tournament Legacy
Vermont’s 14th NCAA Tournament appearance marks a defining moment in program history. Head Coach Rob Dow has guided the team to nine tournament victories, tying the program record set by Paul Reinhardt. Additionally, the Catamounts are the first team in Vermont history to qualify for four consecutive NCAA Tournaments.
Standout Players
- Niklas Herceg – Goalkeeping Sensation: First-year goalkeeper Herceg leads the NCAA with a .857 save percentage and has secured three clean sheets in the 2024 tournament.
- Yaniv Bazini – Record-Breaking Scorer: Bazini has scored in four straight NCAA Tournament games, becoming Vermont’s all-time leader in tournament goals (9) and points (19).
- Maximilian Kissel – Clutch Performer: Kissel leads the team with five game-winning goals and is among the nation’s top scorers.
- Zach Barrett – Defensive Anchor: The graduate defender has logged the most NCAA Tournament minutes (1,115) in program history.
Season Accomplishments
Vermont’s achievements this season include securing a share of the America East Regular Season title and winning the Tournament Championship for only the second time in program history. Several players have earned prestigious conference honors, including:
- Sydney Wathuta: America East Midfielder of the Year
- Zach Barrett: America East Defender of the Year
- Karl Daly: Recipient of the America East Elite 18 Award for academic excellence
High-Stakes Semifinal Matchup
Friday’s semifinal promises an intense battle, pitting Vermont’s high-powered offense—leading the tournament with 10 goals—against Denver’s formidable defense, which has yet to concede in the NCAA Tournament. Fans can expect a thrilling contest as both teams fight for a place in the championship game.
Etruesports remains committed to delivering comprehensive coverage of Vermont’s historic College Cup journey. Follow us for expert analysis and insights into the Catamounts’ extraordinary season.
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