After a nervy final minute, Clemson rejoices as the final buzzer sounds, winning 2-1 and claiming its second national championship in three seasons. Despite entering Monday as decided underdogs, Clemson scored a pair of stunning goals on either side of halftime to take a commanding 2-0 lead and outplaying the Tigers en route to a deserved victory.
Clemson got the scoring started in the first half as Tigers senior Brandon Parrish launched an absolute rocket from outside the box after controlling a half clearance from Notre Dame and ripped a low and driven finish. The shot deflected off an Irish defender giving it an unreadable spin.
AN ABSOLUTE DAGGER FOR THE FIRST GOAL!!! 🚀
— NCAA Soccer (@NCAASoccer)
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Ousmane Sylla doubled the lead for the Tigers, in the second half, off a quick counter and expertly slotted assist from Alex Meinhard. It was Sylla's 13th goal off the season.
As the final minute appraoched, the Clemson defense gifted Notre Dame a lifeline after an attempted cross struck the outstretched arm of a Tiger defender. Paddy Burns buries the ensuing penalty, but it wasn't enought as Clemson held on in the final 60 seconds.
