Alabama Secures 3-1 Victory Over Florida on Senior Night
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – The Alabama soccer team (9-4-5, 2-2-5 SEC) closed out their home regular season with an impressive 3-1 win over Florida (4-6-6, 1-5-2 SEC) Thursday night. The match not only celebrated Senior Night but also highlighted standout performances across the roster, with contributions from seasoned veterans and emerging stars alike.
Key Performances and Highlights
Nedya Sawan opened the scoring late in the first half, finding the net in the 41st minute after receiving a well-coordinated pass from Cameron Silva and Melina Rebimbas. Sawan controlled the ball expertly, turning and firing a shot into the top corner to give Alabama the lead.
The Tide doubled their advantage shortly after halftime when Gessica Skorka delivered a precise cross to Gianna Paul, who volleyed it into the near post. This marked Paul’s 11th goal of the season, moving her to sixth place on Alabama’s all-time list for single-season goals.
Just minutes later, Itala Gemelli extended Alabama’s lead to 3-0. After a determined effort from Nadia Ramadan to create space down the left flank, Gemelli sprinted into position and calmly placed her shot low into the back corner of the net. It was Gemelli’s second goal of the season and showcased her ability to convert in high-pressure moments.
Florida’s lone goal came in the 85th minute when Delaney Tauzel capitalized on a cross from Njeri Butts, but it wasn’t enough to change the outcome.
Senior Night Reflections
Head Coach Wes Hart expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance:
“It was an awesome outcome and a great way to end the season at home with a dominant performance. Every healthy player got into the game and contributed, which is exactly what you want to see on Senior Night. From Nedya scoring to contributions from our fifth-year seniors like Gess and Itala, it was a total team effort.”
Hart also highlighted the significance of the team’s SEC performance, noting their resilience with only two losses in nine conference games. “Some of those ties hurt us in the standings, but overall, I’m pleased with where we are. Now, we have a chance to finish strong against Vanderbilt.”
Game Notes
Nedya Sawan: Scored her sixth goal of the season, with four coming in SEC play.
Gianna Paul: Netted her 11th goal, tying for third all-time in game-winning goals for a season and ranking fifth in career game-winners at Alabama.
Itala Gemelli: Tallied her second goal of the season and 38th overall, combining her time at Alabama and Dayton.
Nadia Ramadan: Registered two assists, giving her a team-leading five this season.
Gessica Skorka: Added her 18th career assist, ranking sixth in program history.
Alabama dominated the game statistically, with 20 shots compared to Florida’s four, and maintained control throughout despite Florida being reduced to 10 players following a red card in the 29th minute.
Next Match
The Crimson Tide will wrap up their regular season on the road against Vanderbilt in Nashville, Tenn., on Sunday at 3 p.m. CT. The match will be broadcast live on SEC Network+.
This victory not only celebrated Alabama’s seniors but also underscored the team’s depth, resilience, and readiness to compete as they approach the postseason.
