Preseason Honors
Florida International University announced that three of its men's soccer standouts have been selected to the American Preseason All‑Conference Team, a distinction that highlights the program’s rising profile as it prepares for the 2026 campaign.
Senior forward Pasquale Capriati, hailing from Altamura, Italy, paced the squad with four goals and three assists last season, earning the nod alongside his teammates and underscoring his leadership on the attacking front.
Johan Helan, a sophomore forward from Saint‑Denis, France, contributed heavily in the offensive third, ranking third on the team in goals while also placing second in shots on goal, a testament to his sharp finishing instincts.
Defender Alfonso Gilleard‑Soriano, a native of Panama, anchored a back line that logged 1,498 minutes in 2025, and his decisive strike in the American Conference quarterfinals proved pivotal in advancing the team deeper into the postseason.
Ranking and Sponsorship
The Panthers also received recognition in the national preseason rankings, landing fifth in the 2026 American Men's Soccer Coaches' Poll with eight votes cast by league head coaches, reflecting respect across the conference.
Adding to the momentum, the upcoming season will be sponsored by Baptist Health, which will serve as the Official Sports Medicine Provider for FIU Athletics, promising enhanced medical support for the roster.
Season Outlook
With the preseason accolades and institutional backing, the Panthers aim to translate early honors into a strong showing on the field, seeking to climb higher in the poll and make a deep run in the conference tournament.