A dominant start
Arizona Soccer opened its 2026 campaign with a convincing 2‑0 victory over New Mexico State in a home opener that drew a crowd of 1,124 to Mulcahy Soccer Stadium, ranking among the venue’s largest audiences in recent memory.
From the first whistle the Wildcats asserted control, holding 68 percent of possession and out‑shooting the visitors 19‑3, a disparity that underscored their tactical superiority.
The defensive effort was equally impressive; Arizona recorded its first clean sheet of the regular season, conceding only three shots on goal.
Offensively, the breakthrough came early when Jessica Bedolla found the net, marking her first goal of the season and putting the hosts ahead 1‑0. The lead was doubled in the 66th minute when Lainey Swanson, a freshman forward, scored her inaugural career goal for the Wildcats.
Head coach Becca Moros, whose home record now stands at 25‑17‑1, praised the team’s execution, noting that the win improves Arizona’s all‑time record against New Mexico State to 4‑0 and extends a streak of four consecutive shutouts.
Looking ahead, Arizona will travel to Spokane, Washington, for a road test against Gonzaga on August 20, a game that could further shape its early season trajectory.