A team that seemingly had all the pieces for success just couldn’t seem to make it work this season. Clemson United was eliminated in the first round of the NCAA Tournament after suffering a 1-0 loss to Western Michigan, effectively ending a rollercoaster season.

Old mistakes came back to haunt the Tigers, as they found themselves down in the first half once again. Graduate defender Mathieu Beuvain got his boot on the end of a cross to put the Broncos up 20 minutes in.

The following 70 minutes consisted of pure domination from Clemson. It continuously grew, creating chance after chance, and in the second half, demonstrated some of the most impressive soccer of the season.

Regardless, none of the 18 shots that the Tigers rifled could penetrate Western Michigan’s defense to equalize.

The loss marks the final match for several seniors who wear the paw and have been key to the program, including Joseph Andema and Nathan Richmond. The two helped the Tigers lift the national championship trophy in 2023.

“You have to suffer sometimes, and experiences like this will help them grow, learn and come back stronger. I mean that’s what we do here at Clemson,” head coach Mike Noonan said.

Clemson still has an incredibly talented roster expected to return. Ransford Gyan has already become a household name as a sophomore. Kwaku Agyabeng cemented a spot in the starting lineup as a freshman. Junior Mason Jimenez leads by example as a reliable and integral part of Noonan’s side.

“They won’t forget these nights, and I won’t let them forget these nights,” Noonan said.

As the Tigers untie their cleats for the final time this season, Western Michigan heads to Furman for the second round of the College Cup on Sunday, Nov. 23. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m.