The 2026 men’s soccer season for Florida International University got off to a brisk start as the Panthers traveled to Omaha, Nebraska, to open play against the Creighton Bluejays on Thursday, August 20.
Morrison Stadium served as the venue for the first of what promises to be a demanding schedule, with FIU looking to translate the momentum from a 2025 campaign that saw the program reach the American Conference Championship game.
A roster built for depth
Head coach Kyle Russell can call upon a core of experienced returnees, including forwards Pasquale Capriati and Johan Helan, alongside defender Alfonso Gilleard‑Soriano, who were instrumental in last year’s push to the conference final.
The squad also welcomes a wave of new talent, highlighted by Santi Possu, a Division II All‑America transfer from Concord who arrives with a reputation as a prolific goal scorer.
Additional newcomers such as Owen Barnett, Jad Benjelloun and Thomas Sellwood add further options, while veteran transfers like Nigel Van Haveren and Florian Grollmann bring international experience from stints in Germany and the Netherlands.
A challenging slate ahead
After the opening match in Omaha, the Panthers will host a two‑match homestand, beginning with a showdown against the No. 2 ranked NC State Wolfpack on August 27, followed by a contest with St. Thomas (Fla.) on August 31.
The early schedule also features a return trip to face Creighton later in the season, marking the fifth meeting between the programs and offering a chance to improve on a 1‑1‑2 record to date.
With 19 newcomers hailing from 12 different countries, the team blends global perspective with local ambition, aiming to translate that depth into results on the field.