NC State closes its regular season Friday at No. 15 North Carolina, looking to build momentum against a highly ranked ACC rival. The Wolfpack is 5-5-5 overall and 1-3-3 in conference play; Aidan Payne, who leads the team with eight goals, and freshman goalkeeper Gabe Lamphere will be key to its chances.

By the Numbers
  • NC State: 5-5-5 overall, 1-3-3 in the ACC.
  • North Carolina: 8-2-4 overall, 3-1-3 in the ACC, ranked No. 15.
  • Payne leads NC State with 8 goals and 17 points.
  • The teams meet for the 92nd time; NC State trails the series, 22-54-15.
Yes, But

NC State has struggled for consistency in conference play, but has shown it can compete with ranked teams: the Wolfpack is 2-2 against ranked opponents this season, including shutout wins over No. 23 UNCW and No. 4 UMKC.

What's Next

Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. Friday at Dorrance Field at Play2Dream Legacy Stadium. The game will stream on ACCNX, with live stats available through StatBroadcast.

Bottom Line

A win would give NC State a statement finish to the regular season—and a chance to turn its ranked-opponent success into a rivalry breakthrough.