Soccer comes up short at Alabama, 4-3

Sunday, September 21

Tuscaloosa, Ala.

1 p.m. CT

University of Texas

2-7-1, 0-3-0

Alabama

8-2-1, 2-1-0

Texas

Alabama

09.21.2025 | Soccer

Box Score Box Score (PDF)

McDonald becomes first Texas freshman with multiple braces since Trinity Byars in 2021

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — Despite a brace from Ava McDonald, the Texas Longhorns were unable to overcome an early hole, falling to Alabama, 4-3, at Alabama Soccer Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

After the Crimson Tide (8-2-1, 2-1 SEC) took a 2-0 advantage into the break, McDonald netted a pair of tallies within the first six minutes of the second half to level the contest for the Longhorns (2-7-1, 0-3 SEC).

McDonald — who also scored twice against College of Charleston on Aug. 31 — became the first Texas freshman with multiple braces in a season since Trinity Byars in 2021.

However, the rookie's heroics would be upstaged moments later, as Alabama answered with a goal less than three minutes later and in the 62^nd minute.

Larkin Thomason led the way for the Crimson Tide, finding the back of the net in each frame. Thomason bookended the four-goal outburst for Alabama, registering her first brace for the Tide. The forward's second-half penalty kick proved to be the game winner.

Kiley Kukan and Gianna Paul also put their names on the scoresheet. Kukan delivered her first tally of the year, while Paul logged her 35^th career goal.

2024 SEC Freshman of the Year Amalia Villarreal converted from the spot in the 87^th minute to pull the Longhorns within reach, but Alabama goalkeeper Madi Munguia stood tall when it mattered most.

Munguia notched a career-high seven saves, helping the Crimson Tide earn their first win in the series history.

For Texas, Kendell Williams made her first career start between the pipes. Williams posted five saves in her collegiate debut.

In the defeat, the Longhorns held a 10-9 advantage in shots on goal.

Up next, Texas returns home to host No. 17 Vanderbilt on Friday evening. Kickoff is slated for 6 p.m. at Mike A. Myers Stadium.