PENSACOLA, FLA — Drama, passion, and heroics: The College of Idaho Yotes delivered it all in an unforgettable NAIA Round of 16 clash against Marian University. Fueled by Eden Makaafi's stunning hat trick and stunning team resilience, the Yotes triumphed 3-2, booking their place in the national quarterfinals.
The game began with a flash of brilliance as Makaafi struck early in the 11th minute. Receiving a pinpoint assist from Kyndra Lyons, Makaafi showcased ice-cold composure, curling a finish from the top of the box to give the Yotes a 1-0 lead. Marian pressed hard for an equalizer, but Brenchley kept their attack at bay with key first-half saves, leaving the Yotes ahead at halftime.
The second half exploded with intensity. Just minutes in, Marian earned a penalty kick, threatening to shift the momentum. Alivia Brenchley became the moment's hero, diving to stop Layla Brown's shot, only to see Brown convert on the rebound, leveling the score at 1-1. Momentum swung further Marian's way when they took a shocking 2-1 lead in the 52nd minute through Sammie King's unassisted effort.
Enter Makaafi again. Just 60 seconds later, she electrified the crowd with a stunning individual play. Turning her defender inside out, Makaafi rifled an unstoppable shot into the net, evening the score at 2-2.
The decisive moment came in the 66th minute, courtesy of a free-kick opportunity. Lyons, who had already provided one assist, delivered a perfectly curled cross into the box. Makaafi lunged forward, just getting her foot on the ball to redirect it past the goalkeeper for her third goal — the game-winner.
The College of Idaho, now 19-0-2 on the season, marches on to the NAIA quarterfinals, carrying with them the dreams of a championship and the energy of a game for the ages.The Yotes will take on a familiar foe in UC Merced in the quarterfinal. They tied earlier this season at Simplot Stadium that ended in a 1-1 draw. They meet again with a winner required on Thursday December 5th at 11am MT in Pensacola Fla.