CHICAGO - Before the 2025 regular season officially commences on Thursday, Aug. 21, versus Oakland, the Loyola University Chicago men's soccer team aims to build chemistry with three exhibition matches beginning tomorrow (Aug. 9) against Chicago State. Kickoff is slated for 5 p.m. at Loyola Soccer Park.

The Ramblers are set to begin their exhibition slate against crosstown foe Chicago State. Despite being separated by just 22 miles, the two teams have met only three times prior in the regular season, but not since 1987. Loyola won all three matchups by at least two goals.

Following its tilt with the Cougars, Loyola will square off against Indian Hills Community College–Centerville on Tuesday, Aug. 12, at 5 p.m. on Hoyne Field. LUC ends its exhibition schedule with a neutral-site meeting in Madison, Wis., against Milwaukee at Breese Stevens Field. First touch is set for noon. All exhibition matches are free and open to the public, but no live stats or video streams will be available.

Last season, the squad—occupied by mostly newcomers—garnered a 5-9-2 overall record and was 3-4-1 in Atlantic 10 play. The Maroon and Gold were 4-2-1 inside the friendly confines of Loyola Soccer Park.

This season, LUC returns 17 student-athletes and seven starters who were responsible for 21 of the 24 goals scored in 2024. Additionally, 59 of 72 points accumulated were racked up by returning Ramblers.

Senior forward Hugo Urdiales is back and ready to pick up where he left off in 2024. The Santander, Spain, native led Loyola in goals (six), assists (four), points (16), shots (29), and shots on target (16). Additionally, 2023 A-10 Goalkeeper of the Year Aidan Crawford is back between the posts.

Head Coach Steve Bode is in his fourth season at the helm of Loyola Chicago men's soccer. He holds a 22-13-14 career record.

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