The UMBC men's soccer team opened its 2026 season with a dominant 5‑1 victory over Presbyterian, improving to 2‑0 and out‑shooting their opponents 56‑12 in the first two matches. The win took place in Baltimore, Maryland, where the Retrievers have begun to establish a strong early rhythm.
Key Moments Shape a Commanding Victory
A 40th‑minute red card to Presbyterian shifted momentum, and Aidom Tadesse's feed from Shawn Shvartshtein found the net in the 36th minute to level the game. Langston Fabiyi was ruled offside in the 41st minute, denying the Retrievers an earlier lead, before Adamo Pantaleo broke the deadlock in the 43rd minute and freshman Nico Banks scored his first collegiate goal in the 44th to put UMBC up 3‑1 at halftime. Jonas Nistad's defensive organization and Abdi Bahur's presence in midfield helped maintain control, while Nick Lentz's passing set up several chances.
The second half saw Flynn Holdem earn a penalty in the 61st minute after an offside call, which he converted, and later Abdul Kamara struck twice from the spot in the 69th minute to stretch the lead to 5‑1. Gabe Carvalho managed the only shot on target for Presbyterian, while UMBC outshot their opponents 29‑5 and earned 12 corners to none.
Looking ahead, the Retrievers are slated to host George Washington at Retriever Soccer Park on Monday night, where a Hometown Heroes night will offer free admission to active‑duty military, veterans, first‑responders and their families, adding a community‑focused backdrop to the upcoming showdown.