Soccer

Maryland Terps Gear for 2026 National Title Run

A deep roster, key returnees and fresh talent aim to capture the program’s fourth championship

Coaching Vision

The Maryland Terps men’s soccer program is gearing up for the 2026 campaign with a clear goal: a fourth national championship under head coach Sasho Cirovski, who already boasts three titles and 17 conference triumphs.

Key Departures

After a 12‑0‑3 finish in 2025 that featured five wins over ranked opponents, the Terps fell in the postseason to both UCLA and the Washington Huskies, setting the stage for a fresh push.

Returning Core and New Faces

Nevertheless, the team retains standout talent such as goalkeeper Laurin Mack, who earned Big Ten Goalkeeper of the Year honors with a .715 save percentage, and veteran midfielders Leon Koehl and Albi Ndrenika, who provide leadership and experience. New faces include All‑CAA first‑team selections Lilian Fichelle and Marco Wright, experienced midfielder Zack Harris, and promising freshmen Rodrigo Neri and Franklin Affanyi, who join the mix alongside returning Rocket Ritarita.

Schedule and Expectations

The Terps open the season with a tough nonconference slate that includes matches against Pitt, High Point and Georgetown, and they are currently slotted at No. 7 in the United Soccer Coaches poll. Big Ten road trips to Bloomington to face Indiana and a trip to Seattle to meet defending champion Washington add further pressure.

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