What was almost a statement win, a program victory for the reigning two-time Big Ten Champions was spoiled in the final seconds.

MSU head coach Jeff Hosler made two changes to his starting lineup from MSU's 1-0 victory against Ole Miss Thursday, bringing in redshirt junior defender Taya Hjorth and graduate midfielder Emily Mathews.

These adjustments were part of a setup to counter Xavier’s high-pressing system, a move that set the tone for a match where tactical flexibility would prove vital.

After the game, Hosler spoke on the importance of utilizing his bench. 

"Any really good, to great, to elite team has got to rely on the mobility of their depth," Hosler said.

The game began slowly, with both teams battling for possession in contested challenges. MSU managed an early chance, but it was the Bulldogs who began to assert control, keeping possession and forcing the Spartans to adjust.

The defensive framework employed by Hosler became narrow, with Mathews left as the lone figure in midfield, a clear counter to Xavier’s threat on the break.

As the game progressed, it became clear that substitutions would be crucial. Hosler made his first change in the 27th minute, bringing on junior defender Remini Tillotson for junior defender Sofia Beerworth. This defensive adjustment was intended to counter Xavier’s wide play, where it had been finding space.

"We’re not afraid to go to the bench," Hosler said. "You do not have to get ready for your opportunity if you stay ready."

Between minute 34 and 39, Hosler made three rapid changes to help his side find rhythm in attack. Junior defender Allie Mairn came on for junior center back Maggie Illig, while senior forward Jordyn Wickes and freshman midfielder Kaleigh McPherson replaced graduate forward Mackenzie Anthony and junior midfielder Emerson Sargeant.

These substitutions were strategic, aimed at increasing physicality in midfield and shoring up the defense, which had been struggling to find space against Xavier’s persistent press.

As the second half began, Hosler reintroduced several of his original starters, returning to a familiar system. The break seemed to rejuvenate MSU, and although Xavier continued to press, the Spartans began to find their footing. In the 64th minute, however, the pressure finally told, with an MSU own goal giving Xavier a 1-0 lead.

But Hosler’s tactical adjustments kept MSU in the game. Sophomore attacking midfielder Bella Najera, who had been substituted on the field, found the back of the net in the 76th minute following a corner, leveling the score. Less than a minute later, Illig scored off another corner, both set pieces delivered expertly by graduate midfielder Justina Gaynor. The quick impact of these substitutions was a testament to the power of fresh legs and tactical flexibility.

Yet, just when it seemed MSU had completed its comeback, the game took a turn.

In the 90th minute, a replay review by referees led to a penalty kick for Xavier, which was confidently converted by senior midfielder Samantha Wiehe, the equalizer at the absolute finale of the game.

The match was a vivid illustration of the importance of substitutions in modern soccer. Hosler’s constant tactical adjustments, particularly his timely substitutions, allowed MSU to claw its way back into the game against an in-form opponent.

While the Spartans were ultimately denied victory, the game highlighted how crucial substitutions can be in shifting momentum and changing the course of a match. The team remains unbeaten with three wins and two draws under its belt.

MSU looks ahead to Thursday, Sept. 5, where it takes on Queens at DeMartin Stadium at 7 p.m.