MATCH DAY IN COLLEGE PARK

September 25, 2026 | Ludwig Field, College Park, Maryland

Writing by Jack Hollida
Images by Tolu Oliwo

On a night filled with pride and determination, the University of Maryland men's soccer team faced off against UCLA in a heated 2-2 draw. Maryland, widely recognized as one of the most powerful soccer programs in the nation, fought tooth and nail to equalize late in the match but will regret not capitalizing on their man advantage in the second half. Previously ranked second in the nation earlier in the season, the Terps now sit fourth following a heavy loss to Northwestern.

The match kicked off in typical Maryland fashion, with fans filling the stadium along the sidelines and behind the goals. After UCLA failed to convert a few early chances, Maryland struck just five minutes into the match. Rodrigo Neri found himself through on goal and slipped the ball past the goalkeeper to give the Terps an early lead. Maryland fans erupted in celebration as the in-form freshman cupped his ears toward the crowd.

UCLA responded to the early setback with a handful of attacking opportunities before eventually finding the equalizer. Jaime Amaro drove into space and delivered a precise left-footed finish at the near post to bring the Bruins level. Rather than celebrating his well-taken goal, Amaro immediately retrieved the ball, signaling his team's determination to push for more.

Late in the first half, UCLA midfielder Diego Martinez received a red card for impeding a breakaway, leaving the Bruins with ten men heading into halftime.

The second half opened with increased pressure from the Terps, as expected with their numerical advantage. However, UCLA refused to back down despite being a man short. Within ten minutes of the restart, Victor Ciaurriz connected with an excellent cross, directing a composed header into the net to give UCLA a surprising 2-1 lead.

The remainder of the match saw Maryland create numerous attacking opportunities as UCLA focused on protecting its lead with ten men. The Terps continued to apply pressure, searching desperately for an equalizer.

With just ten minutes remaining, Maryland finally found its breakthrough. Following an unfortunate dropped ball by the UCLA goalkeeper, Leon Koehl gained possession and squared it to Dominic Ayella, who calmly tapped the ball home to level the score. The stadium lights flashed as the entire venue erupted in celebration, with Maryland's supporters roaring as their team completed the comeback.

Despite both sides pushing for a decisive goal in the closing minutes, neither could find a winner. The match ended in a 2-2 draw, with both teams displaying tremendous determination, resilience, and a desire to claim all three points.

Maryland now turns its attention to its next challenge, a road matchup against Indiana University on October 2.

A Field of Vision Story
Writing by Jack Hollida
Images by Tolu Oliwo
University of Maryland Men's Soccer vs UCLA
September 25, 2026
Ludwig Field, College Park, Maryland