The Coastal Carolina Chanticleers are set to welcome the Stetson Hatters to the CCU Soccer Complex on August 29, kicking off the 2026 men’s soccer season at 6 p.m. Eastern time.
The match marks the first of eight home fixtures scheduled at the complex, and it comes after a 4‑2 defeat to Longwood that left the Chanticleers at 0‑1‑1. Early goals from Mateo Caride and Robert Valdimarsson gave the team a glimpse of offensive spark, while Pearse O’Brien’s two assists hinted at a budding playmaking rhythm.
Key Performers to Watch
Defensive anchor Will Devine, the recent Sun Belt Defensive Player of the Week, posted a shutout against No. 2 NC State with four saves, while midfielder Pearse O’Brien continues to generate chances, having recorded two assists in the season opener.
Stetson’s Early Outlook
The Hatters arrive with a matching 0‑1‑1 record after a narrow loss to No. 15 SMU and a 1‑1 draw with UTRGV. Fresh faces such as William Mills and Mauricio Restrepo have already found the net, and goalkeeper Murillo Mello has seen action alongside Matthew McCall.
Historically, Coastal Carolina holds a 2‑1 edge over Stetson, including a 5‑3 victory in September 2006, but the Hatters hope to flip the script as they aim to outscore the Chanticleers 9‑6 over their recent meetings.
Both programs see the contest as a stepping stone toward a longer season, with Coastal Carolina looking to build on its two‑match winning streak and Stetson seeking to recover from its opening setback.