AMES, Iowa — Arizona soccer dropped its conference opener Thursday night, falling 1–0 to Iowa State at Cyclone Sports Complex.

The Wildcats (5-4-0, 0-1-0 Big 12) controlled long stretches of play and held 55 percent of possession, but the Cyclones (4-1-2, 1-0-0) capitalized on a late opportunity to secure the win.

Iowa State's Megan Walters broke the scoreless tie in the 79th minute, finishing from close range after a long distribution from goalkeeper Kasey Cannistraro.

Arizona outshot the Cyclones 8–11 and held a 6–5 edge in corner kicks, but could not find the back of the net despite quality looks from Lily Boydstun, Jessica Bedolla, and Marissa Arnst, who each put attempts on frame.

Goalkeeper Olivia Ramey kept the Wildcats within reach with five saves, including three in the second half as Iowa State pushed forward.

Freshman Mireya Stephenson logged 31 minutes off the bench as part of a strong defensive rotation.

Arizona will look to bounce back Sunday when it returns home to face Central Florida. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m. at Mulcahy Stadium.