MATCH DAY IN WASHINGTON D.C.

No. 5 Georgetown and North Carolina open the 2026 season with a tense 1-1 draw at Shaw Field.

August 20, 2026 · Washington, D.C.

Writing by Jack Hollida
Images by Tolu Oliwo

At Shaw Field in Washington, D.C. Excitement and tension filled the air as No. 5 Georgetown University and University of North Carolina opened their seasons against each other. Seats filled and students crowded behind the goals as anticipation for this match was clearly displayed across the stadium.

The match ended 1-1, but the scoreline just scratched the surface of how intense a game it was. The atmosphere was charged with passion and aggression, fans cheering from both ends, and determination was written across the players' faces.

The opening goal was scored by UNC number 10 Joschi Schelb following a pinpoint cross from Luca Nikolai. Schelb headed it far post to take the lead for UNC. The finish and celebration from Schelb set the tone for the rest of the game.

Although trailing by a goal early in the match, Georgetown showed no signs of letting up and if anything added even more pressure to UNC. Multiple chances from Indonesian international Mitch Baker made him a constant threat for the defense, including an early header that struck the crossbar.

The second half kicked off with both teams matching the same intensity as the first. Georgetown then earned their equalizer following a flick from Mateo Ponce Ocampo that found Mitch Baker through who made no mistake in front of goal. The Georgetown fans erupted in cheers as hope was restored.

In the dying moments of the game Georgetown believed they had won the game as a penalty was called on UNC defender Riley Berge for a handball in the box. The Georgetown players yelled in excitement knowing that this was their chance to win it. However, after a lengthy VAR check, the referee overturned the decision and ended the game at 1-1.

Only two goals shared between the teams but a game that the students, fans and players will remember as an eventful opener to the 26/27 season. Georgetown faces off against Big 10 competition Rutgers this Sunday at home.

A FIELD OF VISION STORY

Documenting the culture, identity, and meaning of sport beyond the game.

Writing
Jack Hollida

Images
Tolu Oliwo

Georgetown vs. North Carolina
August 20, 2026
Shaw Field · Washington, D.C.