MATCH DAY IN COLLEGE PARK

October 20, 2026 | Ludwig Field, College Park, Maryland

Writing by Jack Hollida
Images by Cole Payne

In an intense, front-footed display, Maryland soccer secured a 1-0 victory over St. John’s. Following an important 3-2 win over Michigan, the Terps looked to continue their winning ways. Once ranked No. 1 in the nation, Maryland had since fallen to No. 11 following losses to Northwestern, Indiana and Michigan State. Against St. John’s, however, Maryland dictated the tempo from start to finish, consistently applying pressure and forcing the Red Storm to rely on their goalkeeper to stay in the match.

    Maryland wasted no time creating attacking opportunities, putting St. John’s under pressure from the opening whistle. While the Terps’ early chances lacked a clinical finish, Said El Eysammi came close nine minutes in, unleashing a dangerous right-footed strike from outside the box that was deflected off target.

From that point on, Maryland continued to press forward. With 10 minutes remaining in the first half, a free kick just outside the box presented the Terps with a prime opportunity to take the lead. Ljubomir Popovic stepped up and curled a powerful effort on target, but an outstanding reaction save from St. John’s goalkeeper Nico Bezama kept the match scoreless.

In the dying seconds of the half, Maryland threatened again through a short corner. A well-delivered cross and a flick sent the ball toward goal, but Bezama once again came up with the save. Despite Maryland’s sustained pressure, the sides entered halftime level at 0-0, with the Terps left wondering how they had yet to find the breakthrough.

The opening 15 minutes of the second half saw the intensity settle, giving St. John’s some room to breathe. That reprieve ended when Rodrigo Neri received the ball on the right side and calmly slotted his finish into the far corner. After an hour of persistent attacking pressure, Maryland finally broke the deadlock to take a 1-0 lead.

    With the advantage secured, Maryland looked to manage the game, while St. John’s pushed forward in search of an equalizer. The Red Storm attempted to find a way back into the contest, but the Terps held firm defensively to protect their lead.

Ultimately, St. John’s could not find a breakthrough of its own, and Maryland secured a 1-0 victory. Having now won back-to-back matches, the Terps will look to carry their momentum into another home matchup against Ohio State.

A Field of Vision Story
Writing by Jack Hollida
Images by Cole Payne
University of Maryland Men's Soccer vs Saint John’s
October 20, 2026
Ludwig Field, College Park, Maryland