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MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. — South Carolina women’s soccer started the 2025 season with a win Thursday night, beating the College of Charleston 1-0 on the road. A late goal from freshman forward Mackenzie Johnson made the difference in a game that stayed close until the final minutes.
For most of the night, both teams traded possessions and looked for ways to score. The first half ended scoreless, as neither team could get many dangerous shots on goal. South Carolina had a few good looks early, and Charleston created a couple of chances of its own, but both defenses held.
The Gamecocks came out stronger after halftime. They controlled the ball more, pushed the Cougars back into their own half and took more shots. Charleston goalkeeper Ainsley Chunn kept it tied, making eight saves.
In the 82nd minute, senior midfielder Maggie Taitano won the ball near midfield and passed to Johnson. The freshman forward took a few touches before sending a low shot past the keeper and into the corner of the net for her first career goal.
South Carolina finished with 14 total shots and nine on target, while Charleston had nine shots with only one on goal. The Gamecocks’ defense stayed organized in the closing minutes, preventing any late chances to secure the shutout.
With the win, South Carolina starts the year 1-0 and continues its strong record in season openers under head coach Shelley Smith.
The Gamecocks return home for their first match at Stone Stadium on Sunday, hosting USF at 6 p.m. Fans are encouraged to come out and cheer as the team looks to start the season 2-0.
By the Numbers
- Final score: South Carolina 1, College of Charleston 0
- Scorer: Johnson (82nd minute)
- Total shots: South Carolina 14, Charleston 9
- Shots on goal: South Carolina 9, Charleston 1
- Saves: Chunn (CofC) 8, South Carolina goalkeeper 1
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