CARY, N.C. – The North Carolina women's soccer team has accomplished yet another remarkable feat as they gear up for their 28th national championship match.

This will be their fourth appearance in the past seven NCAA Division I Women's Soccer Tournaments. The excitement is palpable as they strive for their 23rd national title!

In a stunning semifinal showdown, the second-seeded Tar Heels completely dominated the top-seeded Duke Blue Devils, achieving a resounding 3-0 victory at WakeMed Soccer Park.

This match marked the fourth meeting between these fierce rivals this year, with UNC coming out on top in both of their postseason encounters.

The Tar Heels, currently ranked eighth nationally, improved their season record to 21 wins and 5 losses, alongside a strong 7-3 mark in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). On the other hand, the Blue Devils finished their impressive season with an 18-3-1 record, including an unbeaten ACC record of 9-0-1.

The Path to Glory

UNC's journey to the national title game is a testament to their grit and skill.

The key moment in the semifinal came early in the match when Maddie Dahlien earned a penalty kick in the 10th minute. Kate Faasse confidently converted the penalty, placing it perfectly in the upper right corner to give UNC the early lead.

The Tar Heels escalated their advantage in the 24th minute following a Duke turnover. Bella Gaetino sent a powerful ball to Olivia Thomas, who showcased her strength and skill against her defender. Thomas' left-footed strike from the edge of the 18-yard box found the bottom right corner, doubling Carolina's lead.

Despite being outshot 13-8 during the first half, UNC's goalkeeper Clare Gagne stood strong, registering five impressive saves to maintain the clean sheet.

The second half saw a single, decisive goal from Carolina, solidifying their winning score. A clever pass from Thomas found Faasse, who delivered a perfect chip into the box for Dahlien, who converted with precision from close range.

The Tar Heels' solid defense, led by Aven Alvarez, Trinity Armstrong, Emerson Elgin, and Bella Gaetino, ensured Duke could only manage four shots in the second half, with none testing Gagne.

Star Performers and Records Broken

In a display of teamwork and individual excellence, Faasse scored her 20th goal of the season, currently making her the nation's leading scorer.

Additionally, she boasts four assists throughout the season. Remarkably, Faasse joins an elite group as the only fourth Tar Heel to score 20+ goals in a single season in over two decades.

Thomas added her eighth goal of the season and has become a vital player with 18 points, while Dahlien's second of the season further bolstered the UNC scoring sheet.

Gagne's performance and 12 shutouts showcase her vital role in goal this season.

UNC's Remarkable NCAA History

The North Carolina Tar Heels have extended their streak as the only team to compete in all 43 NCAA Tournaments, boasting an impressive all-time tournament record of 152-18-5.

The program has claimed a phenomenal 21 NCAA championships since its inception, plus one AIAW title.

With UNC now heading into their 28th national championship match, they have a formidable reputation in the NCAA landscape.

The stakes are higher than ever

as the Tar Heels prepare to face off against fellow No. 2 seed Wake Forest in the title match on Monday, December 9, at 7 p.m. ET, also at WakeMed Soccer Park.

This epic encounter marks the second time this season that these two North Carolina teams will meet, following UNC's narrow 1-0 victory in September.

A Historic Showdown Looms!

Fans are eagerly anticipating this exciting rematch, which will also be historic as it's the first time since 1992 that two North Carolina teams will compete in an NCAA title game.

Get ready for an intense clash of talent and determination as the Tar Heels look to capture a record-extending 23rd national title!

Stay tuned and support the Tar Heels as they take this thrilling journey towards championship glory! Follow UNC women's soccer on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook for live updates and behind-the-scenes action.