UCLA men’s soccer opens 2026 season against Virginia

The UCLA men’s soccer team is set to begin its 2026 season this Thursday against the No. 11 ranked University of Virginia at Klöckner Stadium. The Bruins enter the matchup following a successful 2025 campaign in which they won the Big Ten Tournament and secured their fifth consecutive appearance in the NCAA Tournament.

UVA men’s soccer is highlighting the development of defender Zachary Ehrenpreis. After his freshman season, Ehrenpreis attended the MLS College Showcase and trained with the German club Eintracht Frankfurt. Head coach George Gelnovatch noted that the player is on a professional trajectory, despite not receiving a Generation Adidas deal.

UCLA’s roster features several notable players, including transfer Jaime Amaro, who was named to the Mac Hermann Midfielders to Watch list. The Bruins hold a 7-3-1 lead in the all-time series against Virginia.