Fighting Illini Soccer Continues Homestand with a Pair of Rivalry Matches

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Illinois soccer continues its season-opening five-match homestand with a pair of rivalry showdowns vs. Missouri and Illinois State. Kickoffs from Demirjian Park are set for 7 p.m. and 5 p.m. CT, respectively.

The 2024 season marks the 28th season of Illinois soccer, with the Illini holding an overall record of 285-217-46 (.562), and the 23rd season under the leadership of head coach Janet Rayfield.

PROMOTIONS

Thursday, Aug. 22 vs. Missouri | 7 p.m. CT

Kick Stigma – Students across the country are feeling increased levels of stress, anxiety, and depression.  This game is designed to increase awareness of on campus groups as well as raise money for mental health resources to help expand programs that make a difference.

Sunday, Aug. 25 vs. Illinois State | 5 p.m. CT

Back to School Tailgate – Featuring pre-match inflatables and food trucks on the practice field.

Postmatch Autographs – Following the match, players will be signing autographs.

Fans attending the match on Sunday that plan on parking in the grass lot will need to enter through the Goodwin Avenue gravel driveway. Parking will remain available in the Atkins Tennis Center lot, but the grass lot will not be accessible through the lot.

SCOUTING MISSOURI

The Illini trail in the all-time series against the Tigers, 5-7-2, falling 2-1 in the last meeting between the two programs on Sept. 8, 2023, in Columbia, Mo. Illinois also trails 2-3-0 in games played at Demirjian Park, but came away with a 1-0 win in the last contest in Champaign on Sept. 8, 2022.

Missouri went 1-1-0 in its first matchweek, opening the 2024 campaign at home with a 2-0 win over Missouri State before falling 2-0 to No. 10 Memphis. The Tigers were tabbed to finish 16th in the SEC Preseason Coaches’ Poll, with goalkeeper Bella…