CARY, N.C. — In a thrilling semifinal matchup at the 2024 College Cup, Tarik Pannholzer kicked off the scoring just minutes into the game, while goalkeeper Aleksa Janjic showcased his talent with five saves and a crucial assist, leading Marshall to a 1-0 victory over top-seeded Ohio State on Friday night.

As the No. 13 seed, Marshall, boasting a record of 15-1-7, is set to face off against unseeded Vermont in the championship match on Monday. Vermont advanced after triumphing over Denver in a penalty shootout in the other semifinal.

Pannholzer made a strategic run behind the defenders during a counter-attack, connecting well with a long goal kick from Janjic. Ohio State’s goalkeeper, Max Trejo, came off his line but unfortunately collided with his teammate, Siggi Magnusson, near the penalty area. This lapse allowed Pannholzer to easily walk the ball into the net, giving Marshall a 1-0 lead just seven minutes into the match.

Early in the game, Ohio State nearly equalized when David Ajagbe’s header from a corner kick struck the crossbar, leaving the Buckeyes frustrated.

In a concerning turn of events, Nathan Demian was struck by a stray bullet early Sunday morning in Columbus, Ohio, hours after he had helped the Buckeyes secure a 3-0 victory over Wake Forest in the quarterfinals. Authorities have reported that he is recovering well, with family by his side.

Marshall’s soccer program has made a mark in NCAA history, having qualified for six consecutive tournaments and winning a national championship in 2020. Their recent performance underscores their ongoing success.

The match witnessed a few injuries, including Takahiro Fujita of Marshall being carried off on a stretcher during the second half and replaced by Aleksandar Vukovic. Ohio State also had an early injury concern, as Donovan Williams exited the field with a potential leg issue, with Nick McHenry stepping in to take his place.