In a thrilling semifinal match, the top-seeded Mahtomedi Zephyrs advanced to the Class 2A girls soccer championship by defeating Mankato East 2-1 at U.S. Bank Stadium on October 29, 2025. Senior midfielder Kayla Poirer played a pivotal role in the victory, assisting on both goals that propelled her team to a comeback after trailing at halftime.
Mahtomedi, boasting a season record of 16 wins, 2 losses, and 2 draws, showcased resilience despite a challenging start. After falling behind 1-0 due to a goal from Mankato East in the 15th minute, coach Dave Wald emphasized an adjustment in attitude to his players during the halftime break. The Zephyrs not only faced the pressure of high expectations but also significant changes to their lineup, having graduated 11 seniors from last year’s championship team and missing injured captains Allie Rippentrop and Jacque Worden.
The second half saw a remarkable turnaround for Mahtomedi. Just 3 minutes and 28 seconds apart, Poirer set up goals for teammates Lucy Peer and Elise Aflakpi, turning the tide in favor of the Zephyrs. Peer capitalized on a rebound following a Poirier cross to score in the 49th minute, while Aflakpi found the net shortly after, thanks to Poirier’s deft play that evaded a defender.
“Kayla has a really good foot and really good aim, especially on the corners. She’s just great at that,” Aflakpi remarked, highlighting Poirier’s skill in creating scoring opportunities. The goals not only showcased the team’s attacking potential but also highlighted a crucial moment of teamwork and determination.
While the two goals proved decisive, the match would have taken a different turn without the swift actions of freshman defender Olivia Boberg. After a sliding save from goalkeeper Harlow Berger allowed a rebound, Boberg raced to the goal line, blocking a shot that could have equalized the match for Mankato East. “All I knew was to keep the ball out, get back up and move it,” Boberg said of her critical save.
Mankato East, who concluded their season with a record of 15 wins, 3 losses, and 2 draws, initially took the lead in the first half through a cross by Mia Graff, which ricocheted off the far post and into the net. Despite their strong start, they could not maintain the advantage as Mahtomedi executed a well-coordinated comeback.
With this victory, the Zephyrs now prepare to face either the No. 2 seed, Blake, or the No. 3 seed, Holy Angels, in the final scheduled for 12:30 p.m. on Friday. Last year, Mahtomedi triumphed over Holy Angels in the title match, and they will aim to reclaim their championship status once again.
The journey to the final has been a testament to the resilience and skill of the Mahtomedi Zephyrs, who have demonstrated that teamwork and determination can overcome adversity on the field.
