NEW YORK – The Columbia women's soccer team opened the 2025 season on Friday afternoon with a matchup against the Hofstra Pride at Commisso Stadium. Despite the Lions striking first, the Pride came from behind to earn a 2-1 victory.

Hofstra improves to 3-0 on the young season, while Columbia drops to 0-1. 

After an incredible defensive first half from both sides, the Lions opened the scoring in the 57th minute. After a throw-in, rookie Krystal Medina found Angel Akanyirige with a beautiful through ball, who then sent it into the box finding first-year Evelyn Javers who netted her first career goal. 

The Pride had a quick answer, tying the game at 1-1 just 10 minutes later. After a Columbia yellow card, Manon Lebargy sent the free kick right on target. Samantha Mahoney could not collect it, and Alexia Des Croisselles knocked in the equalizer. 

In the 73rd minute, the Lions had a great opportunity to take the lead but were denied. First-year Lyla Gellar had a great look in the box and fired, but Hofstra's keeper Lilly Bradley made a diving save to keep the score tied. 

Then, in the 80th minute, the Pride took the lead on an own goal and held on for a 2-1 win. 


ON DECK
Columbia will have a quick turnaround, hitting the road for the first time this season to take on the Villanova Wildcats on Sunday. Kickoff is scheduled for 2 p.m.

The Lions' full 2025 schedule can be found HERE. 


For the latest on the Columbia women's soccer program, follow @CULionsWSOC on X, Instagram, Facebook at Facebook.com/ColumbiaWSoccer and on the web at GoColumbiaLions.com.