Kansas Nation

KU Soccer Set to Host No. 2 Florida State

Kansas Soccer is preparing for a massive match Thursday night as they play host to No. 2 Florida State. Kansas, who enters with a record of 3-0-1 and, has an opportunity to host the highest-ranked opponent in program history. Florida State is 2-0 with victories over in-state foes Florida (5-0) and FIU (2-0).

KU head coach Nate Lie was asked about the importance of showing well no matter the outcome.

“I don’t necessarily think that ‘showing well’ is our biggest goal for this game,” Lie said. “The final score when you play someone like this – you can’t base all success off that, but we want to go out and compete, play well, show our identity.”

KU began this season with victories in succession over Missouri State, South Dakota State and Utah Valley before playing to a draw with Utah State in Logan, UT. The Seminoles, who were a 1 seed in the 2024 NCAA Tournament, will sport an incredibly deep and talented roster

“They’re probably pound-for-pound the best team in the country if you ask me,” Lie said. “I think they’re certainly the most fully-stocked in an attacking capacity.”

While it promises to be a challenge, Lie remains confident in KU, who is on the cusp of the Top 25 themselves.

“I think we have the opportunity to be one of those teams that plays ‘up’,” Lie continued. “I think a lot of how we’re built is to deal with the best teams.”

Junior defender Caroline Castans said the challenge will be well-received by the Jayhawks.

“I think it honestly helps playing a team like Florida State who is ranked high – playing a team that’s going to give you their all and be a very competitive match,” Castans said on Tuesday. “It honestly keeps you focused.”

Through four matches, Kansas senior forward Lexi Watts leads the team in goals with three, while Castans leads in assists, also with three.

Thursday’s match will mark the third meeting between the Jayhawks and Seminoles in women’s soccer, with the series tied, 1-1. The most recent matchup took place in 2003, with KU winning 3-1 in Lawrence. Thursday’s match will be aired on ESPN+.

Sean Kellerman