Live Updates: No. 7 Alabama Soccer vs No. 23 Georgia

The third ranked-on-ranked matchup in Tuscaloosa this season also serves as the Crimson Tide's SEC opener.

TUSCALOOSA, Ala.— Following a substantial rise in the rankings after a 1-1 draw with North Carolina in its last outing, the Alabama soccer team begins its quest to defend its 2022 SEC title on Thursday night against Georgia.

The Crimson Tide defeated the Bulldogs in Athens last season, one stop in what would eventually become an impeccable regular season slate in conference play. Georgia, in turn, joined the ranks of SEC teams that now seek revenge on Alabama.

The North Carolina result last Sunday was a statement for Alabama in many ways. Despite not coming away with the win, the Crimson Tide fought hard, cementing itself once again as a team that can play with anybody. 

Georgia (3-1-2) has joined the national rankings on the strength of two wins in its last three matchups. Another similarity shared between the Bulldogs and the Crimson Tide? Both teams' last loss came at the hands of the UCLA Bruins. These two teams have run the gauntlet already, and it's only mid-September. However, the real test is about to begin. Conference play is something else in SEC soccer, similarly to other sports. 

In its return to the Alabama Soccer Stadium, Georgia seeks to defeat Alabama in yet another sport, after recent prominent victories in football and men's basketball. The soccer squad couldn't get it done last fall, but now has the opportunity to end the Crimson Tide's home unbeaten run. On the other hand, Alabama can take down a program rival and extwe