COLUMBIA, S.C. — CIU opened the 2026 men's soccer season Thursday with a 1-0 loss to Ave Maria University at home.
The Rams battled through a scoreless first half, keeping the match level despite Ave Maria holding a 6-4 advantage in shots. CIU goalkeeper Vasilios Diakomihalis made three saves in the opening 45 minutes to keep the visitors off the scoreboard.
CIU generated several opportunities of its own in the first half. Andreas Kosta put the Rams' first shot on target in the 14th minute, but it was saved. Julian Rodriguez and Landon Guevara also had shots blocked, while CIU earned three corner kicks during the opening period.
The Rams continued to create chances after halftime. Ezekiel Bargas recorded a header in the 52nd minute that went high, and William Lippiatt followed with a shot just wide moments later.
Ave Maria broke the deadlock in the 57th minute, scoring the lone goal of the match to take a 1-0 lead.
CIU continued to press for an equalizer. Ive Celic forced a save in the 62nd minute, while Bargas added another shot in the 81st minute that sailed high. The Rams earned three more corner kicks in the final 25 minutes, including two in quick succession in the 86th minute, but could not find the tying goal.
The Rams begin the season 0-1 and will look to bounce back in their next match at Bob Jones University in Greenville on Aug. 29.
