HUNTSVILLE, Alabama – The UAH women's soccer team opened the 2026 season with a 2-1 loss to Illinois-Springfield Friday afternoon at Charger Park.
Illinois-Springfield got on the board in the 18th minute the Prairie Stars scored to give take a 1-0 lead. Senior goalkeeper CeCe Szopa kept the Chargers within one, making six saves in the opening half.
The Chargers found the equalizer in the 78th minute when sophomore Prescott Hull scored her first goal of the season off a corner kick assist from junior Michella Tortelli. Illinois-Springfield answered less than seven minutes later, scoring in the 85th minute to put the Prairie Stars back in front.
UAH finished the match with 10 shots, including four on goal, while Illinois-Springfield recorded 23 shots with 13 on target. Hull led UAH with one goal and one shot on goal, while junior RK Naman recorded two shots and one shot on goal.
Szopa made 11 saves in goal for the Chargers, while Illinois-Springfield made three saves. The Prairie Stars also held a 3-1 advantage in corner kicks.
The Chargers will return to Charger Park Sunday afternoon for their home opener against Kentucky Wesleyan at noon.
