Fordham University’s men’s soccer program is preparing for the 2026 season, beginning with away matches against Gonzaga on August 20 and Santa Clara on August 23 before turning its attention to a packed home slate.
A Season of Transition
The departure of several standout players from last year’s roster has created a noticeable shift, especially after the graduation of Daniel D’Ippolito, who captured both Atlantic 10 Offensive Player and Midfielder of the Year honors.
Head coach Carlo Acquista is overseeing a rebuild that leans heavily on fresh talent, with newcomers such as Marc‑Alexandre Happi Emaga, the RSEQ Player of the Year, and Rayane Tchemmoun, a transfer from Marshall University, bolstering the attack.
Returning experience includes senior forward Elias Betancourt, who contributed two goals and an assist, and midfield stalwarts Maclin Stover and junior Fabio Sebastian Sanchez, while fresh faces like Joel Goncalves (MLS Next) and Nico Linares (Leganés B) add depth and versatility.
The defensive line will be anchored by senior captain Kamran Mojabi alongside returning defenders Niko Cappellini, Christian Pica, Luca Giannola and Cosimo Tristani, while new arrivals Jason Hsu, Leevi Swearengen, Arne Michaelis and Mirko Lekovic aim to provide additional options.
In goal, the competition features returning senior Leo Perelman along with newcomers Edoardo Grandi from the Serie A Academy and Shayon Kashi, a transfer from Penn State Harrisburg, promising a fresh dynamic between the posts.
The schedule also highlights a home opener against Columbia on September 9 at Moglia Stadium and a highly anticipated Alumni Day on October 11, where the Rams will host Rhode Island and honor the 1996 Atlantic 10 championship team on the 30th anniversary of that historic run.
Coach Acquista says the early slate is designed to test the team’s resilience, but he remains confident that the blend of seasoned returnees and promising newcomers can keep the Rams competitive as they chase another Atlantic 10 title.