Chambana Sun

Illinois soccer is set to host two significant matches this week at Demirjian Park as they face Big Ten newcomers, No. 19 USC and UCLA. The Illini will play against the Trojans on Thursday at 7 p.m. CT, followed by a match with the Bruins on Sunday at 1 p.m.

These games mark the first visit to Champaign for both USC and UCLA since joining the Big Ten Conference this season. Illinois, now in its 28th season of soccer under head coach Janet Rayfield, holds an overall record of 289-222-48 (.560).

The Illini's match against USC will feature their annual "Kick Cancer" promotion where fans receive ribbons representing different types of cancer. This event coincides with Alumni Weekend, welcoming back former players during Illinois' Hall of Fame Weekend. Sunday's game against UCLA also celebrates Latinx Heritage Night with special food offerings.

In their previous outing, Illinois secured a 2-1 victory over Purdue, marking their second consecutive win. After trailing at halftime, Kennedy Berschel equalized in the second half before Lia Howard scored the winning goal in the 83rd minute.

USC comes into the match with a strong record of 9-1-2 overall and 5-0-1 in conference play. The Trojans were predicted to finish fifth in the Big Ten with notable players such as Maribel Flores and Brooklyn Courtnall on their roster.

UCLA has faced Illinois three times previously and arrives with a record of 10-2-2 this season. They are favored to top the Big Ten standings with key players Lilly Reale and Meg Boade leading their squad.

Illinois boasts a potent offense this year, ranking high in goals and assists within the conference. Key contributors include Sarah Foley, who leads her team with eight goals this season, and goalkeeper Izzy Lee who has recorded three clean sheets so far.

Following these home matches, Illinois will continue its Big Ten campaign on the road against Indiana on October 17th and Rutgers on October 20th.