The men’s College Cup semi-final offers an intriguing slate of three teams chasing their first title, along with a program that has the most NCAA Division I championships. Here is everything to know ahead of Friday night.

Furman (16-1-5) vs. Washington (14-6-2) - Friday, December 12th, 6 PM Eastern

Combined, these two squads boast a roster where 55 of 58 players played youth soccer in the country. That creates another level of intrigue, as this match could serve as a preview to some of the game's future domestic stars. And with both still chasing their first College Cup trophy, this is a golden chance to create a new legacy.

Furman Keys to Victory

The Paladins are among the most offensively flexible teams in the country, able to score from free kicks, long throw-ins, corner kicks, or well-worked combinations. Relying on that ability to morph into whatever the game asks for will be vital against a Washington squad that can, at times, struggle against physically imposing teams.

Washington Keys to Victory

For Washington, this match will come down to how rugged it can be defensively against a Furman team that will launch ball after ball into the eighteen. Then, in possession, the likes of Alex Hall, Zach Ramsey, Richie Aman, and Charlie Kosakoff will need to provide a spark as they have all season.

NC State (15-2-4) vs. Saint Louis (13-2-8) - Friday, December 12th, 8:30 PM Eastern

In a battle of two teams who are returning to their first College Cup in decades, ACC side NC State takes on A10 champions Saint Louis. The Wolfpack have dominated stretches of the season, while the Billikens have built and demonstrated impressive resilience, earning several results that looked impossible.

NC State Keys to Victory

NC State has to understand it is in for an absolute war against Saint Louis, as no lead is safe, no matter the point in the game. That said, this group has demonstrated impressive tactical versatility all season, and relying on that will be vital against a team that is the most dangerous when feeding off momentum. It is essential that the Wolfpacks score first and maintain an aggressive attacking posture.

Saint Louis Keys to Victory

The Billikens must avoid falling behind against an NC State team that has not lost a game when scoring first all year. Without a doubt, this Wolfpack defense will be the best Saint Louis has faced all season, making it all the more critical that it converts any of the very few chances it generates.

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