Georgia State Panthers fought with everything they had, securing a 1-1 draw in regulation against Old Dominion in the Sun Belt Conference tournament on Monday at the Foley Sports Tourism Complex. But in a tense penalty shootout, Old Dominion emerged victorious with a 3-1 edge, putting an end to the Panthers’ postseason hopes.
The match began with a thrilling goal from Elena Diaz in the 45th minute, who placed a stunning shot over the goalkeeper’s reach to give Georgia State a lead just before the halftime whistle. The Panthers’ defense, led by goalkeeper Jaddah Foos with nine clutch saves, held strong against a relentless Old Dominion attack. However, Old Dominion found the equalizer in the 69th minute, sending the game into a nerve-wracking overtime and, ultimately, a penalty shootout.
Aaliyah Faddoul coolly converted Georgia State’s first penalty, but Old Dominion held their nerve and clinched the shootout 3-1, advancing in the tournament and closing out a hard-fought season for the Panthers.
