WAUKESHA, Wis. -- As the College Conference of Illinois & Wisconsin (CCIW) regular season nears its conclusion, Saturday's clash between North Park University (7-5, 2-3 CCIW) and Carroll University (6-6-1, 3-2 CCIW) promises to be a pivotal matchup with postseason implications.

North Park Vikings

The Vikings enter the match looking to bounce back from a narrow 3-2 loss to No. 19 University of Chicago. Despite the defeat, North Park out-shot the Maroons 11-6 in the second half and nearly equalized late in the game. Senior defender Christian Vaaland and junior defender Nico Chavez each found the back of the net, while senior midfielder Vidar Rydell added another assist to his team-leading five.

Offensively, North Park averages 2.17 goals per game, led by Perez and sophomore midfielder Bastian Eikeland, who have four goals apiece. The Vikings boast a strong midfield presence and a defense that has recorded 43 saves, anchored most often by sophomore goalkeeper Ludvig Almborg.

Carroll Pioneers

Carroll is riding momentum after a 1-0 road win over Elmhurst, secured by a late goal from Matthew Meke, his fourth of the season. Freshman Sheridan Joseph provided the assist, and sophomore keeper Uriel Garcia was perfect in net, making six saves for the clean sheet.

The Pioneers average 1.15 goals per game, with Iskander Sharipov leading the team with six scores. Marti Solanelles adds sporadic volume with 53 shots, including 22 on target.

Defensively, Carroll has conceded more goals than they've scored (23 allowed vs. 15 scored), but their recent form suggests a tightening back line. They'll need to contain North Park's dynamic attack and capitalize on set pieces, where Solanelles has proven dangerous.

Kickoff at Carroll's Schneider Stadium is set for 3:30 PM CT, following the women's match.