SPRINGFIELD, Illinois – The UAH men's soccer team opened the 2026 season with a 2-1 road win over Illinois-Springfield Thursday afternoon.
The Chargers got on the board in the 9th minute when senior
Oli Orzechowski scored his first goal of the season. UAH controlled much of the opening half, holding a 10-3 advantage in shots and earning eight corner kicks. Illinois-Springfield's Gentil Selemani equalized in the 26th minute, sending the teams into halftime tied at 1-1.
Orzechowski struck again in the 67th minute, scoring the game-winning goal to give UAH the 2-1 lead. The Chargers held on for the victory while finishing the match with a 15-8 advantage in shots and a 13-2 edge in corner kicks. Orzechowski led the team with seven shots and five shots on goal.
Junior
Sonny Wright made two saves in goal for the Chargers, allowing just one goal on three shots on target from the Prairie Stars.
The Chargers will return to Charger Park Sunday afternoon for their home opener against Shawnee State at 3 p.m.
