A Promising Start
Maryland’s men’s soccer team kicked off its 2026 campaign with a 2-1 victory over Pitt on home turf, setting a tone of optimism for a roster that blends seasoned midfielders with a wave of highly touted freshmen.
Freshman forward Said El Eyssami was the centerpiece of the win, netting both goals for the Terps. His first strike came early, and a composed one‑on‑one finish in the second half sealed the lead, showcasing the poise many expected from the newcomer.
Playmaking duties were shared by senior midfielder Henry Bernstein, whose precise passes set up El Eyssami’s scoring chances. Alongside him, veterans Leon Koehl and Albi Ndrenika provided the defensive stability that allowed the back line to recover after an early period of pressure.
Pitt answered back in the 66th minute when Mamadou Tall unleashed a 40‑yard strike that cut Maryland’s margin to a single goal. Goalkeeper Jack Moxom was tested throughout, but Campbell transfer Lilian Fichelle made two crucial saves in the first half, including a sharp stop against Anders Bordoy.
The debut of freshmen Rodrigo Neri and Franklin Affanyi added depth to the midfield, as they logged 177 combined minutes on the pitch. Their presence helped the Terps manage the game’s tempo while the defense limited Pitt to just six shots on goal.
Despite being outshot 14‑6, Maryland’s disciplined foul count of 16 reflected a willingness to fight for every ball. The win also extended the team’s perfect home record to 8‑0‑1, reinforcing the advantage they enjoy in College Park.
Looking ahead, the Terps will host a four‑game homestand that includes marquee matchups against No. 16 High Point and No. 5 Georgetown. The upcoming schedule offers a stern test for the freshmen cohort and a chance to cement Maryland’s rise in the early season rankings.