#2 Missouri Valley Claims 2-0 Victory Over #1 Central Methodist in Heart Conference Championship

FAYETTE, Mo. — No. 2 Missouri Valley (16-0-4, 11-0-2) secured a decisive 2-0 victory over No. 1 Central Methodist (16-2-2, 12-0-1) on Wednesday, netting a goal in each half to maintain their unbeaten record. This win marked Missouri Valley's first Heart of America Conference Tournament Championship since at least 2004.

After both teams came away with a 2-2 draw in the regular season, the first half began with both Missouri Valley and Central Methodist vying for control. The Vikings' offense tested CMU's Amber Bennett, who saved shots from Serena Amaya Abe and Viktoria Einsbor. The breakthrough came in the 38th minute when Heliamar Mora scored, giving MVC a 1-0 lead. Central Methodist's Pascalle Rodriguez had a late attempt in the 43rd minute, but her shot went wide, leaving the score unchanged at halftime.

Missouri Valley extended their lead with an own goal by Central Methodist in the 73rd minute, bringing the score to 2-0. CMU struggled to capitalize on their opportunities, with Nerea Munoz's header hitting the crossbar in the 52nd minute. The Vikings' defense held firm, with Lola Martinez Benitez making crucial saves, including one against Luana Jarolin's header in the 89th minute to complete the shutout and help the Vikings earn the conference championship.

With Missouri Valley winning the conference tournament and Central Methodist earning the automatic bid through the regular season, both teams have earned a trip to the NAIA National Tournament. The NAIA Selection Show will be held on Friday, Nov. 14, at 6:00 PM.