Wake Forest Clinches 2024 ACC Soccer Crown Over Clemson in Cary PK Thriller

CARY, N.C. -- The Wake Forest men's soccer team etched its name in ACC history Sunday at WakeMed Soccer Park, defeating Clemson 7-6 in a tense penalty-kick shootout after a 1-1 regular-time draw. Fifth-seeded Wake Forest, playing in nearby Cary, outlasted the second-seeded Tigers in eight rounds of PKs, with Clemson's Samir Dishnica sailing his decisive shot over the crossbar. Demon Deacon goalkeeper Trace Alphin made four saves, matching Clemson's Patrick Donovan, as Wake Forest earned the automatic bid to the 2024 NCAA Tournament.

The match showcased gritty ACC rivalry, with Clemson outshooting Wake Forest 17-14 and both teams registering five shots on goal. Wake's Basit Umar had his PK stopped earlier, but the Deacs converted enough to prevail after trading successes in the first three rounds. This victory marks Wake Forest's first ACC men's soccer title since 2017, building on their strong 2024 campaign and boosting NCAA hopes just before the selection show.

For North Carolina, the win resonates deeply in the Triangle region, where WakeMed Soccer Park has hosted pivotal ACC clashes, including Wake's 2016 championship run against Clemson in nearby Charleston. The Demon Deacons, based in Winston-Salem, now eye national glory, continuing the state's soccer legacy alongside clubs like the North Carolina FC. Coach Mike Bromstead's squad demonstrated resilience, turning conference momentum into tournament fuel.