The Florida International University women's soccer team is set to open its 2026 campaign at home against a formidable opponent, the No. 4 ranked Florida State Seminoles, on August 16 at 6 p.m. The match will take place at Leyva Family Field, marking the second straight year the Panthers have hosted the defending national champions.
Renewed rivalry
The series between the two programs stretches back to 2008, with Florida State holding a 7‑1 edge, but the Panthers' only victory came in 1988 when they edged the Seminoles 4‑1. That win remains the last time FIU has beaten a top‑five opponent, a milestone the current squad hopes to repeat.
Coach Mat Dunn, now in his second season, will rely on a blend of experience and fresh talent. Returning seniors include goalkeeper Valery Restrepo, who posted a career‑high 57 saves last year, and forward Roxy Brewer, a recent All‑Conference Third Team selection. Freshman Yuzu Tanida broke onto the scene with her first career goal, assisted by senior Adria Kitzinger, in the team's opening draw with Florida Atlantic.
The roster overhaul includes 19 newcomers, twelve of them freshmen, among them forwards Chiamaka Omeze and Mariana Barreto, as well as Adria Kitzinger, who is expected to add depth in midfield. Players hail from eleven countries across four continents, giving the Panthers a truly global outlook.
Ranked fifth in the Conference USA preseason poll, the Panthers finished last season 7‑6‑4, capturing four CUSA wins and earning five postseason awards. Their run ended with a 1‑0 overtime loss to Middle Tennessee in the conference tournament, but the coaching staff believes the experience will fuel a stronger push toward a conference and national title.
The schedule does not ease after the Florida State showdown; the Panthers will next travel to face No. 3 Duke before returning home for additional conference battles. Florida State arrives fresh off a 4‑0 victory over Stetson, with top scorer Wrianna Hudson leading the attack and Nyanya Touray back in the lineup.