The 2025 campaign for the USC Trojans soccer team opened with a three‑game winning streak at Rawlinson Stadium, but the momentum quickly unraveled as the side fell into a stretch of losses and draws against powerhouse opponents such as Stanford and Washington.
A Rocky Start and Early Exits
A 4‑5‑2 conference record ultimately secured a spot in the Big Ten Tournament, only to see the Trojans bow out in the opening round, underscoring the challenges that lie ahead for a program in transition.
The roster has been reshaped by several high‑profile departures: forward Maribel Flores left for a professional stint with SC Braga in Portugal, graduate goalkeeper Bella Grust exhausted her eligibility, and sophomore forward Jaiden Anderson transferred to Purdue, where she will meet her former teammates on September 13.
Head Coach Jane Alukonis, who recently locked in the program’s top‑ranked 2026 recruiting class, highlighted the arrival of standout goalkeeper Josie Biehl, a U‑17 CONCACAF champion, alongside veteran transfer Annabel Austen, a two‑time Ivy League All‑First Team goalkeeper from the University of Pennsylvania.
Meanwhile, junior midfielder Eleanor Morrissey earned Big Ten All‑Academic honors and appeared in every match last season, while senior defender Alyssa Gonzalez logged over 700 minutes and helped the team to six shutouts.
The schedule also features a marquee early‑season clash against BYU on August 22 at 6 p.m., a game that will test the new‑look Trojans against a familiar foe.
With a blend of experienced returnees, fresh talent and a coaching staff focused on development, the Trojans hope to translate their rebuilding efforts into a competitive push for a top spot in the Big Ten.
Looking Ahead
The combination of new recruits, returning veterans and a coaching philosophy centered on resilience suggests that USC’s soccer program is poised to turn the page and contend for future success.