WINSTON-SALEM, NORTH CAROLINA - Stanford (10-1-1) continued their impressive season with a 2-0 road victory over Wake Forest (5-3-3) on Saturday evening. The Cardinal extended their winning streak to four matches while handing the Demon Deacons their second consecutive loss.
The match remained scoreless through an intense first half despite multiple opportunities for both sides. Fletcher Bank proved particularly dangerous for Stanford, registering three shots in the opening period including a close attempt in the 22nd minute that tested the Wake Forest defense.
The first half saw Stanford establish control through methodical build-up play, generating 11 shots to Wake Forest's 4. Jose Perez and Harvey Sarajian both had blocked shots for the Demon Deacons in the 6th minute, while Alex Chow threatened for Stanford with a low drive in the 27th minute. The Cardinal earned four corner kicks before halftime, demonstrating their attacking intent.
The second half featured increased intensity from both sides. Will Cleary nearly broke the deadlock for Stanford in the 53rd minute with a well-placed shot. Wake Forest's Daniel Krueger responded with two blocked shots in quick succession around the 77th minute as the hosts pushed for an equalizer. The match saw several tactical adjustments, with both teams making multiple substitutions - including Wake Forest's triple change in the 68th minute when Cristian Escribano and Alfred Debah were withdrawn.
Stanford dominated the statistical battle, outshooting Wake Forest 21-10 with 8 shots on target compared to the Demon Deacons' 2. The Cardinal's defensive organization was particularly impressive, limiting Wake Forest's clear opportunities despite conceding 8 corner kicks. The match also featured seven yellow cards, with Wake Forest collecting five cautions including bookings for Cristian Escribano, Mason Sullivan, Jose Perez, and Harvey Sarajian.
Fletcher Bank stood out for Stanford with multiple dangerous attempts throughout the match, while Zach Bohane controlled the midfield with his distribution. For Wake Forest, Ryan Belal showed flashes of brilliance before being substituted in the 61st minute, while Amoni Thomas provided defensive stability despite the team conceding twice.
Stanford's tactical approach focused on controlling possession and creating opportunities through patient build-up play, while Wake Forest looked to counter-attack through quick transitions. The Cardinal's pressing strategy effectively disrupted Wake Forest's rhythm, particularly in the crucial middle period of the second half.
The victory maintains Stanford's impressive form, having won four straight matches including recent victories over Oregon State and Boston College. For Wake Forest, the result marks a challenging period following their previous loss to Clemson, though their defensive organization showed promise despite the final score.
Stanford's disciplined defensive performance, anchored by their backline and complemented by their efficient attacking play, proved decisive in securing three points on the road. The Cardinal demonstrated why they're among the nation's top teams, executing their game plan with precision while adapting to Wake Forest's tactical adjustments throughout the match.
Both teams now look ahead to crucial matchups next weekend. Stanford returns home to face Pittsburgh on October 11, while Wake Forest travels to California seeking to snap their losing streak on the same date.