Ohio (3-7-5 overall, 1-3-4 Mid-American Conference) will host Buffalo (10-3-1 overall, 6-2-0 MAC) Thursday at 4 p.m. at Chessa Field in Athens, Ohio.
This MAC matchup presents a crucial opportunity for the Bobcats to gain momentum, while the Bulls aim to maintain their strong conference performance. Ohio has struggled to get wins in the MAC recently. Here is everything to know about a big MAC matchup.
Match Information
Opponent: University at Buffalo Bulls
Location: Chessa Field (Athens, Ohio)
Time: Thursday at 4 p.m.
Watch: ESPN+
Follow live stats here
Ohio enters the game following a challenging stretch, most recently drawing with a 2-2 finish against Toledo. This season, the Bobcats have struggled to convert chances, scoring just 12 goals in 13 games.
Leading the way on offense are Iro Fakinou and Sania Dearing, each with three goals this season. Having played all 15 games this season, Fakinou has accumulated 13 total shots, nine of them on goal.
From this, the Bobcats should expect a fiery performance from her once again. For Dearing, her aim and consistent speed have helped her tally three goals on the season, with eight shots on goal from 15 total attempts, contributing six points for the Bobcats. Based on her performance so far, Ohio can rely on Dearing to be a constant threat on the wing, using her pace to create scoring chances and pressure Buffalo’s defense.
For the Bulls and their strong overall record, much of their success has come from forward Jasmine Guerber and midfielder Laiken Kiser. Guerber’s six goals and five assists prove she is a dynamic offensive threat. She is capable of both finishing chances and setting up her teammates in crucial moments, which will pose a challenge to the Bobcats’ defense.
Guerber also leads the MAC in shots with 47 and shots on goal with 23. She has established herself as one of the MAC’s best attackers.
For Kiser, her 19 total shots, 13 of them on goal, will also act as a threat to Ohio goalie Celeste Sloma, who has been a steady presence in the net for the Bobcats so far this season. Recording three clean sheets and 56 saves, Sloma will continue to anchor the Bobcats’ defense as they prepare to face the Bulls' high-powered attack.
In this matchup, Ohio looks to leverage its home-field advantage and control possession, relying on quick transitions from midfield to attack and capitalizing on set-piece opportunities. Buffalo, on the other hand, will seek to maintain offensive pressure and exploit Ohio’s difficulty in turning shots into goals.
The Bulls’ balanced approach and depth could pose a significant obstacle for the Bobcats, who will need to remain organized defensively and execute efficiently in front of the net.
Fans should watch for quick transitions from Ohio’s midfield, especially the speed and skill of Dearing and Fakinou. On the other side, Guerber and Kiser’s ability to find space and finish chances will be key for Buffalo. With both teams battling for position in the MAC standings, Thursday’s matchup at Chessa Field promises to be a thrilling contest.
Ohio will look to seize the moment at home, while Buffalo aims to continue its strong conference run. Fans should expect a competitive game that could have a large impact on the rest of the season for both teams.
