A challenging slate ahead
The University of North Carolina men's soccer program has released its 2026 schedule, a 15‑game journey that blends home‑field advantage at Dorrance Field with a road test against some of the nation's most respected programs.
Head coach Carlos Somoano, now in his sixteenth season, enters the campaign fresh off a dominant showing in the Carolina Cup, where his side posted a perfect 5‑0 record. His experience and the team's recent momentum set a confident tone for the upcoming season.
The schedule features three opponents that finished the 2025 season ranked in the Top 25, as well as six squads that earned NCAA tournament berths. In addition to home-and-away series against traditional rivals, the Tar Heels will host Stanford, Clemson and Duke, while opening the regular season on the road against Georgetown and Memphis.
Exhibition and early‑season action
Two exhibition matches against Liberty and Maryland will precede the official start, giving the squad a chance to fine‑tune tactics before the first competitive fixture. The regular‑season opener takes place on the road against Georgetown, followed by a contest with Memphis, before the home opener against VCU on August 28.
Throughout the campaign, the team will travel to venues ranging from Berkeley, California, where Stanford resides, to Nashville, Tennessee, and Richmond, Virginia, before returning to Chapel Hill for the final home game against NC State on October 30.
Looking ahead
With a blend of seasoned leadership, a strong non‑conference slate and a schedule that balances travel and home support, the Tar Heels aim to translate early momentum into a deep run in the NCAA tournament. The upcoming season promises compelling storylines for fans and analysts alike.