FORT WORTH, TEXAS - Colorado (9-1-2) defeated TCU (9-2-0) by a score of 3-1 on Thursday evening at Garvey-Rosenthal Soccer Stadium, snapping the Horned Frogs' five-game home winning streak.
The match featured dynamic attacking play from both sides, with TCU's Sydney Becerra testing the Colorado defense early with two shots in the opening 15 minutes. Emma Yolinsky posed a consistent threat for the Horned Frogs, registering three shots in the first half, while Colorado's Ava Priest and Hope Leyba each recorded dangerous attempts on goal.
The first half saw TCU dominate possession and create multiple scoring opportunities. The Horned Frogs recorded 12 shots before halftime, with Seven Castain and Cameron Patton both coming close. Colorado's defense, anchored by Reagan Kotschau, held firm despite sustained pressure, though Kotschau received a yellow card in the 27th minute for an unsporting challenge.
Colorado's tactical adjustments in the second half proved decisive. The Buffaloes made several key substitutions, with Emerson Layne and Sami Fisher providing fresh energy in attack. TCU continued to press forward, with AJ Hennessey and Morgan Brown both recording shots, but Colorado's counterattacking strategy ultimately proved more effective.
The statistical dominance of TCU made the final score particularly surprising. The Horned Frogs outshot Colorado 26-9 overall, including a 10-3 advantage in shots on target. TCU also held an 8-1 edge in corner kicks, but couldn't convert their opportunities into goals. Colorado's efficiency in front of goal proved the difference.
Individual performances shaped the outcome significantly. TCU's Emma Yolinsky was particularly active with five shot attempts, while Sydney Becerra contributed four shots. For Colorado, Hope Leyba created multiple dangerous opportunities, while goalkeeper Jordan Nytes made nine crucial saves to preserve the victory.
The tactical battle highlighted contrasting approaches. TCU's high-pressing style generated numerous chances, particularly through their midfield trio of Becerra, Yolinsky, and Castain. Colorado's disciplined defensive structure and quick transitions proved more effective, despite having less possession.
This result carries significant implications for both programs. Colorado extends their winning streak to three matches and strengthens their position near the top of the conference standings. TCU's first home loss of the season raises questions about their ability to convert territorial dominance into goals.
The match turned on Colorado's clinical finishing and defensive resilience. Despite being outshot by a nearly 3-to-1 margin, the Buffaloes' organized defensive unit, led by Kotschau and supported by timely saves from Nytes, frustrated TCU's attack throughout the evening.
Looking ahead, Colorado travels to face Baylor on October 5, while TCU hosts Iowa State on the same day as both teams continue their conference campaigns. The Horned Frogs will look to bounce back from just their second loss of the season, while Colorado aims to extend their winning streak to four matches.