The men’s college soccer season kicks off tonight, with lots of enticing matchups to keep an eye on. Ranked sides are pitted against each other, with College Cup hopefuls having their quality tested early. And there are interesting games outside of the top 25, too, with new coaches facing tricky opponents.

Here are five games to watch in week one.

Thursday, August 25

No. 10 Saint Louis at Louisville(m), 5 p.m. (ACC Network Extra)

Simon Becher's golden goal over time header was the difference between the two teams last year after a thrilling contest. It’s a matchup that’s delivered in recent times, with the sides splitting the most recent games, 3-3. And although St. Louis(m) has the higher ranking, Louisville might fancy its chances here, especially at home. The Cardinals are an experienced side and return most of their goals from last year, while the Billikens will have to replace the production of six MLS draftees.

No. 3 Georgetown(m) at No. 9 Pittsburgh(m), 8 p.m. (ACC Network Extra)

Georgetown coach Brian Wiese has a lot to figure out this fall. He saw his College cup semi final side gutted this offseason and will have to reach deep into last year’s bench for production. Pitt(m), meanwhile, will field a veteran side, one heavy on midfield talent. The Panthers went 11-1 at home last year, too. It will be a big test for Wiese’s young group.

No. 16 New Hampshire(m) at No. 17 Maryland(m), 6 p.m. (ESPNU)

Has Sasho Cirovski added enough to this Maryland team to compete for the Big Ten crown? The Terps have certainly shown some promise in preseason, especially with winger Josh Bolma finding form. New Hampshire is constantly improving and welcomes 10 talented recruits to an already impressive roster. Everything seems set up for a good matchup in what should be a raucous Ludwig Field.

Friday, August 26

No. 8 Indiana(m) at No. 1 Clemson(m), 7 p.m. (ESPNU)

Everything fell into place for Clemson last year. The Tigers boasted an experienced squad, loaded with quality — a team assembled ideally for a College Cup win. However, with seven starters gone, a bumpy start is possible. Indiana is in a similar situation, having lost some of its top players. A Friday night, national TV contest might be the perfect test for both sides.

Sunday, August 28

Grand Canyon(m) at Denver(m), 7 p.m. (ESPN+)

Grand Canyon ushers in a new era, with Mike Kraus taking the helm for his first season. And he’s already made a mark, adding 19 new players to a squad that made the NCAA Tournament last year. Denver returns much of the defense that held opponents to less than a goal per game in 2021. It's a contest that will test the attacking quality of one side and the resiliency of another. 

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