On Monday, August 24, at 7 p.m. Central Time, the SMU Mustangs will step onto the road to face the No. 4 Saint Louis Billikens in a marquee opening‑week clash that promises to set the tone for the season. The match will be streamed live on ESPN+, giving fans across the country a chance to follow the action as the Mustangs look to extend their historic dominance while the Billikens aim to reclaim the series lead.
The meeting marks the 41st installment of a series that began more than half a century ago, making it the second‑longest rivalry in SMU soccer history. The two programs are tied 9‑9‑2 in St. Louis, while SMU holds an 18‑15‑7 overall edge.
SMU arrives with a revamped lineup that returns seven regular starters from the 2025 campaign, including senior forward Stephan Soghomonian, who netted 13 goals last year, and sophomore midfielder Jaylinn Mitchell, the 2026 MLS SuperDraft’s first‑round selection. Their combined 30 of the team’s 34 goals from a season ago underscore the continuity of a potent attack.
The Mustangs opened their campaign with a 3‑1 victory over Stetson, controlling 60 percent of possession and out‑shooting the Hatters 13‑7. Soghomonian’s 15th career goal and Mitchell’s tenth career assist highlighted a performance that also saw the team ranked No. 15 in the United Soccer Coaches Preseason Poll and No. 4 in the Preseason ACC Poll.
Saint Louis, meanwhile, burst onto the scene with a 4‑0 win over Seattle University, a result that propelled the Billikens to a No. 4 spot in the United Soccer Coaches Preseason ranking after their 2025 College Cup run. Andrew Heckenlaible contributed a goal and an assist in the opening match, signaling that the Billikens’ offense is already firing on all cylinders.
Key storylines to watch
Beyond the obvious narrative of a ranked showdown, several subplots will shape the contest. The chemistry between Soghomonian and Mitchell, who combined for 30 of last season’s goals, will be scrutinized, as will the defensive contributions of Noah Holmstrøm, the Sun Belt Defensive Player of the Year who earned a spot on the MAC Hermann Trophy Watch List. Additionally, the debut of freshman forward Slade Starnes, who earned ACC tournament MVP honors in 2025, may provide an unexpected spark.
What’s at stake
A win for SMU would not only reinforce their early‑season ranking but also bolster confidence as they navigate a demanding ACC schedule. For Saint Louis, a victory would cement their status as a top‑tier program and keep them in the conversation for a national championship berth. The outcome could also influence early NCAA tournament projections and affect seeding in the upcoming conference tournaments.