Preview: Cochise Women’s Soccer Hosts Two Nationally Ranked Opponents

DOUGLAS, Ariz. — It's a huge week for Cochise Women's Soccer, as the Apaches get set to host back-to-back nationally ranked opponents at home in Douglas, AZ. The home stand kicks off Wednesday, September 17, against NJCAA Division II #6 Phoenix College Bears, followed by a Saturday showdown with NJCAA Division I #2 Arizona Western College Matadors on September 20. Both matches will be livestreamed on CoolFM Live via Facebook (Watch Here).

Scouting the Opponents

Phoenix College (2-0-2, 2-0-1 ACCAC) comes to Douglas riding a two-match win streak, including a 1-0 victory over DII #4 Scottsdale on Sept. 13. The Bears have tallied 22 goals in four games while recording two shutouts, showing both offensive firepower and defensive stability.

Arizona Western (5-0, 2-0 ACCAC) enters the weekend as the team to beat, sitting atop the conference standings with 31 goals scored and just one goal allowed this season. The Matadors are fresh off a 2-1 win over nationally ranked Eastern Arizona, making Saturday's match a critical early test for Cochise in the ACCAC title race.

Players to Watch

For Cochise, sophomore forward Diana Taddei leads the attack with four goals, including a brace against Mohave. Freshman goalkeeper Marissa Tamayo has been steady between the posts, starting all five matches and making key saves to keep the Apaches competitive.

Saturday's matchup will have extra emotion, with four former Arizona Western players — Taddei, Ana Velazquez, Maria Ibarra, and Andrea Vazquez — now wearing Cochise red and black.

Coach's Perspective

Head coach Santos Rangel, along with assistant coach Ivana Siles, has been deep in game film, preparing for both opponents.

"These are two of the best teams in the country, and we know what's at stake," Rangel said. "Arizona Western has been circled on our calendar for a long time. It's a great opportunity to measure ourselves, compete at a high level, and defend our home field."

What's at Stake

Cochise currently sits third in the ACCAC standings (1-1), making this week pivotal in the push for playoff positioning and potential home-field advantage in the region tournament.

How to Watch

Fans are encouraged to come out to the Douglas campus to cheer on the Apaches, but those unable to attend can watch both matches live via CoolFM Live on Facebook: facebook.com/cochiselivelocal.