Rutgers men’s soccer will open its 2026 campaign at home on August 28, hosting Sacred Heart at Yurcak Field in Piscataway, New Jersey, with kickoff scheduled for 7 p.m. Eastern.
The Scarlet Knights arrive after a 0‑1‑1 start to the season, having split their first two matches against American University and No. 5 Georgetown, and they will look to build on the performances of senior defender Nick Collins and midfielder Charlie Kitch.
Collins, who anchored the back line with five shutouts last year and logged over 1,400 minutes, returns as a defensive stalwart, while Kitch adds experience after scoring the season‑opening goal against Georgetown and earning All‑CAA honors.
Goalkeeper Rafael Ponce de Leon, who transferred from Northwestern and posted five shutouts in his debut season with Rutgers, is expected to continue his strong form between the posts.
Looking Ahead
The roster also welcomes a wave of newcomers, including transfers Amer Lukovic and several freshmen, bolstering the attack that scored 10 goals in 2025 and returns eight of those contributors.
Up next, Rutgers will host Seton Hall on September 4 at the same venue, offering the first test of the revamped lineup before conference play begins.
With a blend of seasoned starters and fresh talent, the team aims to translate early momentum into a competitive run through the Big Ten schedule, and fans can expect a dynamic style of play as the season unfolds.