Season Opener Ends in Narrow Defeat
The Bruins opened their 2026 campaign on a rainy evening in Los Angeles, falling 2‑1 to the BYU Cougars. Despite a 14‑10 edge in shots, UCLA could not hold onto the lead after Kara Croone’s 38th‑minute strike, set up by Grace Shank, was answered by Mattyn Summers‑Oviatt’s equaliser in the 42nd minute. Ellie Walbruch capped the comeback with a header from a free‑kick in the second half, securing the winning goal for BYU.
Goalkeeper Mariangela Medina kept UCLA in the game with five saves, while BYU’s Chelsea Peterson made just two. The match also marked a milestone for eight Bruins, including freshmen Thea Perry and Anna Wilson and transfers Ava Priest, Cate Sarinopuolos, Olivia Woodson, Marli Galdamez, Asa Yamazaki and Abby Gemma, who all made their first appearances for the program.
Debutants Shine Amidst the Action
UCLA head coach Gof Boyoko, who described BYU as a traditionally strong side, expressed disappointment at the loss but praised the team’s effort. “We created chances and outshot them, but the final product wasn’t there,” he said, adding that the club will now turn its focus to a September 16 showdown with No. 3‑ranked Duke.
The upcoming contest against Duke, scheduled for Durham, North Carolina, will test the Bruins against a top‑three opponent. With the season still young, the team hopes to translate its early‑season lessons into a stronger performance on the road.
Looking Ahead to a Top‑Ranked Opponent
The Bruins will travel to Duke’s campus for a highly anticipated clash, hoping to avenge the early‑season setback and prove that their strong shot differential can translate into a win against a nationally ranked opponent.