The top seeded Penn State women’s soccer team advanced to the semifinals of the Big Ten tournament after defeating eighth-seeded Iowa 2-0. The two teams had previously met in Iowa earlier this season, where Penn State won 2-1.

Emily Hurd scored her second goal of the season in the 17th minute of the game off an assist from Maya Hayes. Penn State had only one other shot on goal during the half compared to Iowa’s overwhelming nine shots.

The second half was full of corner kicks for both teams — eight for Iowa and five for Penn State. Iowa had five shots on goal but could not capitalize off the many opportunities due in large part to keeper Erin McNutly. Maddy Evans scored off a header on a corner kick from Raquel Rodriguez in the 60th minute. Penn State had only one other shot on goal in the second half.

McNutly had 14 saves in the game, only one shy of the school record.

Next up for Penn State is fifth-ranked Illinois, who defeated fourth-ranked Minnesota 3-2 on penalty kicks, on Friday at 10 a.m. If the game is anything like when the two teams faced each other earlier in the season (Penn State won 4-0 in Illinois), then the outcome will be good for Penn State.

Additionally, the Field Hockey team is also in its Big Ten tournament, but received a bye due to their top-seed. They will play in the semi-final of the tournament on Friday at 1:30 p.m. against the winner of the Iowa (ranked fourth) – Michigan State (ranked fifth) matchup.