After downing the fourth-seeded Nebraska Cornhuskers 2-1 in its semifinal matchup, the top-seeded Michigan State Spartans will take on the sixth-seeded Penn State Nittany Lions for the Big Ten Tournament title.
This is MSU’s first ever title appearance in program history. The Spartans have already had a historic season so far, notching 16 wins, which is a program record, and receiving countless awards to boot.
Head Coach Jeff Hosler said he is excited for the opportunity to play for another title.
"Obviously, it was an incredible regular season for this group, including going undefeated in conference play and winning our first trophy together,” Hosler said. “I think this group is hungry for more. This is an incredible opportunity, with a great environment and great atmosphere. We get to use a spectacular facility at Lower.com Field and have a chance to once again play on national television for our second title in 2022. I'm excited to see a quality soccer match, and I'm excited to see our team give their very best."
This is only the third time ever that the Spartans will see Penn State in the postseason. Penn State won both of those contests in 1995 and 2008.
MSU faced PSU earlier this season, defeating them 2-1 in its highest ranked victory in program history at the time. It was also Michigan State's first road victory in the all-time series.
PSU will be no easy matchup though as it comes into the match boasting a 12-4-3 overall record. Penn State topped the second-seeded Northwestern Wildcats 2-0 in its semifinal match last Thursday.
The Spartan defense will need to keep an eye on senior forward Ally Schlegel if they want to come out victorious. She has recorded 11 total goals and 24 points throughout the season, which leads their squad.
If the Spartans are to win, they will receive an automatic bid for the NCAA Tournament.
Kickoff is set for 2 p.m. on Big Ten Network.
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