UPDATE: The University of San Diego (USD) men’s soccer team is set to face Grand Canyon University in a crucial NCAA Tournament second-round match at 5 p.m. on December 10, 2023. This is a pivotal moment for the Toreros, who are having a stellar season with a record of 13-2-3 and a fourth consecutive West Coast Conference title.
The Toreros earned a first-round bye, demonstrating their dominance in the sport. Notably, their goalkeeper, Lucca Adams, made headlines last spring by transferring from UCLA, a move seen as a significant upgrade within the competitive landscape of men’s college soccer.
USD’s path to the tournament has been remarkable. They are now ranked No. 3 in the Top Drawer Soccer poll, while UCLA, a team that had to win their last five games to qualify, was eliminated in a stunning penalty shootout loss to Grand Canyon. This outcome has set the stage for an exciting match at USD’s Torero Stadium.
“Listen, I think the perception of our sport is slightly different,” said Yossi Raz, head coach of UC Irvine, after USD’s impressive 2-0 victory over his ranked team earlier this season. “USD has proven to be a powerhouse.” This sentiment reflects the broader landscape of men’s college soccer, where traditional powerhouses are being challenged by emerging teams like USD.
The NCAA men’s soccer tournament is unique in that it allows mid-major teams to compete on an equal footing with the traditional powerhouses. The Vermont Catamounts are the reigning champions, showcasing that smaller programs can indeed rise to the top. The Toreros’ coach, Brian Quinn, emphasizes that “there are opportunities if you get the right set of circumstances,” highlighting the unpredictable nature of the sport.
As the tournament progresses, all eight teams remaining in USD’s quadrant hail from mid-major conferences, emphasizing a shift in competitive dynamics. USD’s success in recruiting international talent has played a crucial role in building a competitive roster. Their squad features players from various countries, including England, Israel, and Brazil, alongside local talent from Southern California.
The excitement surrounding the upcoming match is palpable, as fans look forward to seeing whether USD can capitalize on their momentum and advance further in the tournament. With so many unexpected outcomes in this year’s tournament, the stage is set for another thrilling chapter in men’s college soccer.
Looking ahead, all eyes will be on USD as they prepare to take on Grand Canyon. The match promises to be a high-stakes encounter that could further define the Toreros’ legacy in college soccer. Stay tuned for updates as the tournament unfolds!
