Notre Dame Edges Duke 7-6 in Thriller, Eyes Lacrosse Glory

DURHAM, N.C. — Notre Dame's men's lacrosse team eked out a 7-6 win over host Duke on April 18, improving to 9-1 overall and 2-1 in the ACC. The No. 1 Fighting Irish withstood a gritty effort from the No. 16 Blue Devils (8-4, 0-3 ACC) in a 2-hour, 3-minute battle before 2,435 fans at Duke University.[1][4][7] Faceoff at noon on ESPNU showcased ACC rivals trading blows, with Notre Dame sealing it in the final seconds.[1][2] Duke, riding a four-game skid, hosted its final regular-season home contest but couldn't overcome the Irish defense. The Blue Devils dropped to 6-2 at home, 1-1 away and 1-1 on neutral sites, struggling in conference play.[6][4] Highlights captured Notre Dame's late stand, thwarting Duke's desperate clear attempt to preserve the one-goal margin.[3][7][9] Notre Dame coach Kevin Corrigan's squad earlier announced a marquee 2026 schedule, facing powerhouses like No. 1 Maryland, No. 2 Syracuse and No. 8 Duke among 11 games, five at home.[5] The victory bolsters their top ranking and positions them as Final Four favorites alongside Duke's resilient bid.[1] As the NCAA Men's Lacrosse Championship looms this spring, tickets go on sale this fall, setting the stage for Duke and Notre Dame to clash again in postseason stakes.[8][10] The Irish's offensive firepower and Duke's home-field tenacity promise more fireworks en route to the title.