Maryland men's soccer head coach Sasho Cirovski has unveiled the 2026 schedule, a program that blends a rigorous non‑conference slate with a competitive Big Ten slate. The announcement underscores the team's intent to build on the momentum of a 2025 Big Ten Championship and to test themselves against some of the nation's top programs.
A demanding non‑conference slate
The Terps will travel to face Pittsburgh on August 20, 2026, before returning home to host New Haven, High Point, Delaware, Georgetown and St. John's in the following weeks. Each of these opponents brings a distinct challenge: High Point entered the 2025 season ranked No. 16, while Georgetown finished the same year at No. 5 nationally.
Home dominance in the Big Ten
At Ludwig Field, Maryland will welcome Wisconsin, UCLA, Michigan State, Ohio State and Penn State. The home matches against Wisconsin (October 9), Michigan State (October 9), Ohio State (October 24) and Penn State (November 4) provide a platform for the Terps to showcase their depth and tactical acumen in front of their own fans.
The season opens on the road at Pittsburgh on August 20, 2026, a test of resilience that will set the tone for the months ahead. The early schedule is designed to sharpen the team's competitive edge before conference play begins.
A marquee home matchup arrives on September 7 when Georgetown visits College Park. The Hoyas arrive with a No. 5 national ranking, promising a high‑stakes encounter that could have significant implications for both teams' postseason aspirations.
Big Ten play kicks off on September 11 at Northwestern, after which the Terps will host Michigan State on October 9, Ohio State on October 24, and close out October with a road test at the 2025 national champion Washington on October 30.
The regular season culminates on November 4, when Penn State returns to Ludwig Field for the final home game of the year, giving the Terps a final opportunity to fine‑tune before the Big Ten tournament.
Key returnees
Maryland will benefit from the experience of several standout players who earned All‑Big Ten honors in recent seasons. Goalkeeper Laurin Mack was named Big Ten Goalkeeper of the Year, while defender Leon Koehl earned First‑Team honors and midfielder Albi Ndrenika was selected to the Second Team. Their presence provides continuity, leadership and a proven winning pedigree.
Coach Cirovski emphasized that the blend of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers positions the program to sustain its competitive edge. With a schedule that pits the Terps against ranked opponents and traditional rivals, the 2026 campaign is poised to be a defining chapter in Maryland soccer's recent resurgence.