The 2025 campaign for Lindenwood Men's Soccer kicked off with a commanding 3‑0 victory over Chicago State, a result that also marked the Lions' second consecutive 1‑0 start in Division I play — a first in program history.
A historic start
Leading the attack, fifth‑year forward Luca Bartoni delivered a career‑high brace, striking twice in the second half and reaching four points for the game, a personal best for both goals and total production.
Freshman forward Philip Viberg Rasmussen announced his arrival on the collegiate stage by scoring his inaugural collegiate goal in the 27th minute of the first half, a moment that helped set the tone for the match.
Goalkeeper Quinn Closson continued his dominant form, posting his seventh shutout in just 11 appearances and extending his unbeaten streak to over 800 minutes since the season began.
The scoring was spread across five different players, with newcomers Ryan Holmes and Gabriel Tonks joining returning veteran Luke Neely in providing assists, underscoring the team's depth.
Looking ahead, Lindenwood is scheduled to meet Blackburn College on Wednesday, August 26 at 7:00 p.m. CT, a contest that will be streamed live on ESPN+.
Across the state, Indiana University‑Indianapolis (IU Indy) opened its season with a 2‑1 loss to Louisville, despite outscoring opponents 18‑6 defensively over the year.
Senior forward Jose Antonio Herrera, a returning All‑Horizon League Third Team selection, started all 17 matches last season, logging a team‑high 1,456 minutes and contributing seven points — three goals and an assist.
IU Indy finished the 2025 campaign with a 6‑8‑3 record and a perfect 2‑0 mark against Ohio Valley Conference opponents, a testament to their defensive resilience.