The Clemson men’s soccer team capped off a remarkable 2024 campaign with an ACC Championship final that ended in heartbreak. The Tigers, who finished the season with a 14-2-4 record, battled fiercely but ultimately fell to Wake Forest in a dramatic penalty shootout, 7-6, following a 1-1 draw through extra time.

Despite the loss, Clemson’s season was filled with standout performances and individual accolades that solidified its place as one of the premier teams in the nation.

The good news? It’s not over just yet.

Ransford Gyan’s instant impact

One of the standout performers for Clemson was freshman sensation Ransford Gyan, who earned ACC freshman of the year honors following the regular season.

Throughout the season, he consistently delivered in crucial moments, including his game-winning goal in the ACC semifinal against Cal that sent the Tigers to their fifth final in six years.

Gyan’s influence was also pivotal in Clemson’s quarterfinal win over Stanford, where his run down the field set up Alex Meinhard for the match-winning goal in a tight 1-0 battle. His ability to rise to the occasion was evident throughout the season, as he notched critical assists and goals.

Another vital play the freshman made included a perfectly placed cross to Misei Yoshizawa that salvaged a 2-2 draw against South Carolina.

Midfield maestro: Joran Gerbet’s stellar season

In addition to Gyan’s breakout performances, senior midfielder Joran Gerbet was recognized as the ACC midfielder of the year. Gerbet, a key orchestrator in the middle of the field, provided a steadying presence that allowed Clemson to control the tempo against even the toughest opponents. His composure and passing were vital in matches such as Clemson’s 3-2 victory against No. 3. North Carolina and a gritty 1-0 win over Boston College in September.

Gerbet’s leadership and defensive work rate were on full display during the ACC Tournament, where he was named to the all-tournament team alongside teammates Adam Lundegard and Meinhard. His ability to break up plays and distribute the ball allowed Clemson to dictate the flow of matches, particularly in the ACC semifinal, where Clemson withstood Cal’s comeback attempt to secure its spot in the final.

Overcoming adversity: Antonio Illuminato’s injury

The Tigers faced additional adversity heading into the final as graduate midfielder Antonio Illuminato suffered a leg injury during the semifinal clash with Cal. Illuminato, a key midfielder throughout the season, played a crucial role in Clemson’s midfield along with Gerbet.

His absence was felt in the final against Wake Forest, where the Tigers had to adjust their midfield setup.

Alex Meinhard: The consistent scorer

Another standout player for Clemson was graduate forward Alex Meinhard, whose consistent scoring ability made him one of the most reliable players throughout the season. Meinhard’s clinical finishing was on display during the ACC tournament, where he netted crucial goals to propel the Tigers to the final.

Meinhard’s connection with Gyan was particularly lethal, with the two combining for several key goals during the season. His work rate off the ball made him a constant threat to opposing defenses, and his ability to create space for himself and his teammates made him a focal point of Clemson’s attack.

ACC Championship: A battle until the end

The ACC Championship final against Wake Forest was a nail-biter from start to finish. Clemson took the early lead in the 20th minute when Gyan delivered a pinpoint corner kick that led to a chaotic scramble in the box. Though Adam Lundegard nearly headed it in, it was Lukas Magnason who capitalized on the rebound to put Clemson ahead 1-0. However, Wake Forest responded in the 39th minute with a goal from Nico Rabiu, setting the stage for a tense second half.

The Tigers had multiple opportunities to seal the victory in regulation, with Wahabu Musah and Meinhard each coming close. In extra time, Gyan nearly secured the championship with a cross from Remi Okunlola, but his shot narrowly missed the target. Wake Forest’s defense held firm, pushing the match to a penalty shootout, where Clemson’s effort fell short by the slimmest of margins.

Late-game heroics lead No. 24 Clemson to Upset of No. 3 North Carolina, 3-2

Clemson scored twice in the game’s final seven minutes to pull off a 3-2 upset of the No. 3-ranked North Carolina Tar Heels at Historic Riggs Field. The No. 24-ranked Tigers (6-2-2, 3-2-0 ACC) were locked in a thrilling battle with the Tar Heels (6-1-3, 3-1-0 ACC), with late-game heroics proving to be the difference. Gerbet scored two goals, and Illuminato netted the game-winner in the 87th minute to secure the victory.

North Carolina opened the scoring in the 23rd minute, but Clemson responded with a free-kick goal from Gerbet in the 32nd minute, tying the match at one at halftime. The second half saw both teams even out until a red card to Clemson’s Okunlola in the 68th minute forced the Tigers to play the final 22 minutes with just 10 players.

In the 84th minute, Meinhard drew a penalty kick after a video review, and Gerbet stepped up to calmly convert, giving Clemson a 2-1 lead. Just two minutes later, North Carolina was awarded a penalty kick of its own after a video review, with Sam Williams converting to tie the game at 2-2.

With time running out, Clemson’s Musah sent a cross to Illuminato, who put it into the back of the net in the 87th minute to put Clemson ahead for good. Despite being a man down, Clemson’s resilience shone through as it managed to secure the upset victory over the third-ranked team in the country.

The victory marked the Tigers’ first win over a top 10 opponent since defeating Duke in November 2022.

Looking ahead: NCAA Tournament aspirations

Although Clemson fell short in the ACC final, its season is far from over. With a 14-2-4 record and several standout individual performances, the Tigers are poised to make another deep run in the NCAA Tournament.

With players like Gyan, Gerbet and Meinhard leading the charge, Clemson is primed to challenge for a national championship.

Clemson’s next test will be on Nov. 24 at 6 p.m. when they will play the winner of Providence and Bucknell in the second round of the NCAA Tournament at Historic Riggs Field.