Texas college soccer teams open 2026 season with win and draw

The 2026 college soccer season commenced with varying results for major Texas programs. The University of Texas Longhorns secured a 3-0 victory over HCU at Mike A. Myers Stadium, marking the first win for head coach Margueritte Bates. Amalia Villarreal opened the scoring in the third minute, followed by a goal from Sadie Hoch, and a final strike by Kennedi Cotter in the 84th minute. Texas dominated the match with 74 percent possession and 19 shots.

In contrast, the University of Houston Cougars opened their campaign with a scoreless draw against FGCU in Fort Myers, Florida. Despite a second-half surge featuring 10 shots, Houston was unable to find the net. Goalkeeper Sierra McCluer recorded three saves to secure her 16th career shutout. This result marks the second consecutive season the Cougars have opened with a scoreless tie.