ENID, Okla. - In a powerful display on the national stage, the Arizona Western women's soccer team defeated Salt Lake Community College 2-0 Tuesday in Pool C of the 2025 NJCAA Division I Women's Soccer Championship, earning a berth in the national semifinals. Sophomore forward Fernanda Quiroz delivered both goals as the Lady Matadors improved their record to 16-1.

Arizona Western's control was evident from kickoff, outshooting Salt Lake 26-4 while limiting the Bruins to just one shot on target. The match shifted in the 24th minute when Salt Lake was reduced to 10 players following a red card, giving the Lady Matadors a decisive advantage. Seizing the moment, Quiroz broke the deadlock in the 31st minute with a diving header off an assist from Karen Sodeyama.

The Lady Matadors applied pressure throughout, posting 11 first-half shots and 15 more after the break. Salt Lake's goalkeeper kept the match within reach, making 10 saves, but Arizona Western's attack would not be denied. Quiroz struck again in the 85th minute, this time set up by Reina Kasano, to put the result out of question.

The defense proved impenetrable, anchored by Kei Yoneda, Linka Ono and Asa Yamazaki. Goalkeeper Iyan Hernandez needed just one save to record the clean sheet, as the unit held Salt Lake without a significant opportunity all match. The win marks the fourth in a row over the Bruins since Salt Lake's win on penalty kicks in the 2022 District final at Matador Field. 

With the win, Arizona Western advances confidently to the NJCAA national semifinals, a trip the Lady Matadors have now made for the third consecutive year.

Up Next

The Lady Matadors will face Seminole State in the NJCAA national semifinals on Thursday at 12 p.m. MT in Enid, Okla. Arizona Western college will once again hold a watch party for all fans, faculty, students and staff in the Hospitality room (GY-108). Everyone is welcome to attend.