The 2026 women's soccer season is already generating buzz as Loyola Chicago prepares to travel to Iowa for a marquee opening matchup. Both programs enter the year with preseason accolades and a desire to protect early winning streaks.
A Fresh Start for the Ramblers
Loyola arrives after a 4‑2 victory over Central Michigan, a win highlighted by Maggie Schmidt’s decisive goal and Allison Deardorff’s 19th career shutout. Head coach Jon Sandoval, now in his seventh season, brings a 72‑24‑21 record and a roster bolstered by ten newcomers, including seven freshmen. Senior forward Zoe Hevey, the Atlantic 10 Preseason All‑Conference selection and a Hermann Trophy nominee, led the team in points, goals, assists and shots last year, giving the Ramblers a potent offensive core.
The Atlantic 10 preseason poll placed Loyola fifth with 133 points, underscoring the competitive outlook within the conference. Sandoval’s new staff and the infusion of fresh talent aim to translate that potential into a strong start on the road.
Iowa’s Momentum
Iowa, ranked with votes in the United Soccer Coaches Top‑25, returns seven starters and 17 letterwinners, adding eleven newcomers to the mix. The Hawkeyes opened their season with a 7‑0 triumph over Milwaukee, where Berit Parten contributed two goals and an assist, and four players — Sofia Bush, Millie Greer, Liana Tarasco and Elle Wildman — earned All‑Big Ten honors.
A Rivalry Renewed
The two schools share a 2‑2‑2 record, the most recent encounter ending in a 0‑0 tie. This road test marks the first for both teams in the 2026 campaign, and the stakes are heightened by the desire to preserve unbeaten streaks while testing early-season chemistry.
Fans can expect a fast‑paced contest that showcases the depth of talent on both sides, from Hevey’s playmaking to Iowa’s balanced attack. As the season unfolds, the outcomes of these early games will likely shape conference standings and national perceptions of the programs.