
Virginia Women’s Soccer Embraces Tactical Overhaul Under Steve Swanson
The Cavaliers have reshaped their playbook with a new formation, and early performances from key players signal a promising season.
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The Cavaliers have reshaped their playbook with a new formation, and early performances from key players signal a promising season.

On August 16, the No. 11 Virginia women's soccer team will host Liberty at Klöckner Stadium, looking to extend a 14‑match season‑opener winning streak, showcase breakout performances from Gio Canali and Addison Halpern, and move closer to a milestone for head coach Steve Swanson.

Virginia’s women’s soccer team began the 2026 season with a 3‑1 victory over Northwestern, highlighted by early goals, a strong midfield display and coach Steve Swanson’s praise for tactical cohesion.

The Cavaliers opened their 2026 campaign with a 3-1 triumph over Northwestern, driven by standout performances from midfielder Addison Halpern and forward Gio Canali, while Coach Steve Swanson praised the team's progress.

After losing senior leaders and facing injuries, the University of Virginia women's soccer team reshapes its lineup, with emerging talents like Pearl Cecil and Addison Halpern poised to lead the charge.

The Cavaliers will wrap up their preseason schedule with a home match against DC Power FC on August 8, then begin the 2026 campaign against Northwestern on August 12, entering the season ranked No. 11 and boasting a blend of returning veterans and new talent.

The Cavaliers will host Maryland in a free, community‑focused exhibition on August 5, showcasing a deep returning core and eight new additions as they begin a demanding preseason schedule.

UVA sophomore Gio Canali has been selected for Brazil’s U‑20 women’s national team, joining a series of high‑profile friendlies in Portugal that will sharpen the side ahead of the upcoming FIFA U‑20 Women’s World Cup.

Virginia’s rising star Gio Canali has been selected for Brazil’s U-20 women’s national team, preparing for a series of friendlies in Portugal as a stepping stone toward the upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup.