Exhibition Opens With a Draw
Michigan State’s men’s soccer team opened its 2026 campaign on August 14 with an exhibition match against Loyola Chicago, finishing level at 1‑1.
Junior forward Oscar Huerta broke the deadlock in the 20th minute, finishing a move set up by Luke Spadafora and Brandon Munson.
The Spartans controlled the early stages, holding possession and creating chances, with 16 or 17 players seeing action and outchancing their opponents seven to two.
In goal, junior keeper Jake Grekowicz kept a clean sheet during the first half after Zac Kelly was taken off, showcasing composure between the posts.
Loyola Chicago responded after the break, equalising in the 78th minute to force a 1‑1 final score, while the match gave coach Damon Rensing a chance to evaluate a broad roster.
Rensing singled out Leo Conneh’s debut, noting the newcomer’s bright display despite his name not appearing on the stat sheet.
The exhibition will wrap up on August 14, after which the regular season begins on August 20 against Albany, marking the start of the Spartans’ push for the 2026 NCAA Division I Men’s Soccer Championship.