A Road Test in Tennessee
The Marshall University women's soccer squad is set to begin a two‑game road swing through Tennessee, opening with a 7:30 p.m. Eastern kickoff against the Belmont Bruins on Thursday in Nashville.
Head coach Rafa Simoes, now in his third season, guided the team to eight wins in 2025 and oversaw a 3‑2 victory over Wright State on Sunday, where Viktoria Mikrut, Maria Chaves and Geovanna Souza each recorded their first goals of the campaign, the latter assisted by senior Madison Townes.
This year's roster features players from a record 16 different countries, underscoring the program's growing international footprint at Marshall University.
Belmont, currently 1‑2‑1, remains unbeaten at home with wins over Chattanooga and a goalless draw against Tennessee Tech, and holds a 1‑0 series edge despite Marshall's all‑time lead.
The upcoming contest is part of Marshall's broader goal to capture its first road victory of the season, a milestone that could energize the team for the remainder of the schedule.
Coach Simoes plans to blend veteran savvy with the fresh perspectives of the internationally diverse squad, hoping that chemistry will translate into a positive result on the road.
Fans in Huntington, West Virginia, and supporters worldwide will be watching closely to see whether the Herd can convert its diverse talent into a breakthrough performance.