Columbus State Wins Fourth Consecutive Peach Belt Soccer Title

The Columbus State University women’s soccer team secured its fourth consecutive Peach Belt Conference Tournament title on Saturday, Nov. 7, following a 2–1 victory over North Georgia. This win marks a historic milestone for the program, as the Cougars’ 2023 freshman class completed a perfect tournament run, winning four titles in four seasons without suffering a single loss in tournament play.

According to a report from the Peach Belt Conference, the victory in Columbus, Ga., brings the Cougars’ season record to 15–3–2. The match was defined by a high-pressure offensive start from Columbus State and a defensive stand led by goalkeeper Huda Sayedzada.

Columbus State strikes early to secure the title

The Cougars established dominance within the first fifteen minutes of the match. Kaylee Castano opened the scoring at 10:18, finding the back of the net for her third goal of the season after receiving an assist from Payton Conti. Less than five minutes later, at 15:03, Shania Wegesend doubled the lead. Wegesend converted a pass from Kendal Coreil to record her ninth goal of the year, which ultimately served as the game-winning strike.

The PBC Women's Soccer Championship is set🤩🏆 #1 Columbus State hosts #2 North Georgia in the PBC Tournament final on Saturday with kickoff set for 1:00pm in Columbus⚽#DareToDominate pic.twitter.com/O581WGEXSM

— https://x.com/PeachBelt/status/2118097523097383216

North Georgia attempted to claw back into the match during the second half. Nina Lopez scored at 54:44, assisted by Grace McGill, to reduce the deficit to 2–1. However, the Cougars’ defense remained intact for the remainder of the contest, holding the Nighthawks scoreless in front of a crowd of 545 fans.

Huda Sayedzada played a central role in preserving the lead. The tournament MVP recorded seven saves in total, including four saves during the first half and three additional stops after the halftime break. Of North Georgia’s 22 total shots, eight were on target, all of which Sayedzada or the defensive unit managed to neutralize.

A perfect run for the 2023 freshman class

The statistical significance of this victory lies in the longevity and consistency of the current roster. The members of the 2023 freshman class have now participated in four consecutive Peach Belt Tournament championship runs. By winning this Saturday, they have achieved a rare feat in collegiate athletics: a four-year tournament cycle without a single defeat in the postseason tournament format.

The Cougars’ ability to maintain this level of performance through multiple seasons highlights a period of sustained dominance within the conference. As the team moves beyond the Peach Belt stage, the focus shifts toward national competition.

The Cougars’ season continues next week. The team is currently awaiting the announcement of its NCAA Regional opponent, which is scheduled to be released on Monday night.