The Florida International University women's soccer program is set to open the 2026 campaign on August 12, when it welcomes Florida Atlantic to Flagler Credit Union Stadium. The matchup marks the 23rd straight meeting between the two sides, a streak that has seen FIU hold a 24‑13‑3 edge in the all‑time series.
A historic season opener
Under head coach Mat Dunn, the Panthers have begun to carve out an identity that blends disciplined defending with an aggressive attacking philosophy. In Dunn's debut season the team posted a 7‑6‑4 record, captured four victories against Conference USA opponents and recorded its first win over UCF since 2000. The coach's influence is evident in the way the squad has tightened up at the back, a development highlighted by goalkeeper Valery Restrepo, whose career‑high statistics have made her a cornerstone between the posts.
FIU's momentum under Mat Dunn
The roster returns ten players from the 2025 squad, including Roxy Brewer, who earned CUSA All‑Conference Third Team honors and was named to the All‑Freshman team, and Restrepo, who continues to rank among the nation's most reliable keepers. Adding to the mix are 19 newcomers, twelve of them freshmen, and athletes from eleven countries spanning four continents, giving the team a truly international flavor.
A global roster and a preseason ranking
All of this depth helped FIU secure a fifth‑seed in the Conference USA tournament before a heartbreaking 1‑0 overtime loss to Middle Tennessee. Despite that setback, the preseason poll placed the Panthers fifth in the league, a testament to the belief that the program is moving in the right direction.
Florida Atlantic's quest for redemption
Florida Atlantic, meanwhile, is looking to bounce back from a 2025 season that yielded just four wins. The Owls will rely on Hailey Santiago, who contributed six goals and 14 points last year, and goalkeeper Ashley Small, who brings steady experience to a defense that has shown flashes of brilliance. The upcoming clash will also serve as a preview of another marquee fixture: just four days later, FIU will host No. 4 Florida State, the defending national champions, adding another layer of excitement to an already charged schedule.