The 2025 season has been one to remember for the women's Illinois soccer team, and Thursday will provide another opportunity to keep the good times rolling.
With the Illini securing the No. 9 seed in the Big Ten Tournament, they will face off against the Ohio State Buckeyes in an attempt to strengthen their NCAA tournament resume. The team has not made the postseason since the 2013 season.
While the Buckeyes are not nationally ranked, they still received votes in the latest poll, proving the match will provide the Illini with a quality win if they are able to secure it. Illinois will look to avenge a 3-0 loss at home earlier in the season.
With a win, the Illini will go on to play Washington, the No. 1 seed in the Big Ten Tournament and the No. 8 team nationally. A close game should prove they belong in the NCAA tournament, and a win would all but secure it.
Throughout the season, the Illini have flirted with the rankings and have been given the national consideration they rightfully deserve. However, the last stretch of games to end the season has not been ideal and has pushed them near the edge of missing out.
Losses to Michigan State and Northwestern, as well as a tie to Michigan, have cooled off the fiery season the team has had thus far.
However, despite this ugly stretch, voters should know the Illini are undoubtedly one of the top 64 teams in the country. A tournament appearance, and anything after that, would be quite the bow to put on a tremendous season.