Princeton University’s men’s soccer team opened the 2025 season with a preseason acknowledgment that placed them eighth in the United Soccer Coaches national poll, a ranking that reflects both last year’s Ivy League dominance and the program’s rising national profile.
The Tigers capped the previous campaign with a flawless 7‑0‑0 Ivy League record and went on to win the league tournament, a performance that propelled them to the top of the RPI rankings and secured a No. 3 overall seed in the NCAA Tournament — the highest ever for an Ivy League program.
A Historic NCAA Seed
Although their NCAA run ended in the second round with a narrow 2‑1 loss to Duke at home, the result only amplified expectations for a squad that returns a core group of experienced players.
Key Returners
Among those returnees, senior goalkeeper Andrew Samuels earned a spot on the USC Goalkeepers to Watch List, recognized for his low goals‑against average, high save percentage and multiple clean sheets last season.
Defender Roka Tsunehara also received notice on the USC Defenders to Watch List, underscoring his steady defensive contributions that helped anchor a back line that limited opponents throughout the previous year.
The team will begin its schedule at home on August 28 against Villanova, a match that will serve as the first test of chemistry and a chance to translate preseason optimism into on‑field results.
The blend of veteran leadership and emerging talent positions Princeton to maintain its upward trajectory, with Samuels and Tsunehara serving as anchors on opposite ends of the field.
With the season opener looming, coaches and fans alike are eager to see whether the Tigers can convert early promise into a deep tournament run, a prospect that could further cement Princeton’s resurgence in collegiate soccer.