Cover Picture vs UCF preview

USF Men’s Soccer Hosts UCF in War on I-4 Matchup

Bulls look to extend unbeaten start as they face in-state rival UCF at Corbett Stadium.

September 03, 2025

TAMPA, Fla., September 3, 2025 – The University of South Florida men's soccer team (2-0-2), fresh off a thrilling 3–2 home victory over Florida Gulf Coast University, turns its attention to the War on I-4, a clash with in-state rival UCF.  The match is set for Thursday, September 4, at 7:00 p.m. at Corbett Stadium and will be streamed live on ESPN+.
 
Setting the Stage
The Bulls are riding momentum after securing their first home win of the season in dramatic fashion against FGCU. Goals from Fabio BozesanPedro Faife, and Jakob Auby powered USF to victory, while goalkeeper Jahiem Wickham made five crucial saves to protect the lead.
 
With the nonconference slate continuing, Thursday night marks an opportunity for the Bulls to extend their unbeaten start.
 
The Opponent
The UCF Knights (1-3-0) enter the match looking to bounce back from their recent lose against UNC Greensboro and make a statement on the road. The rivalry history between the two programs has produced numerous high-intensity, tightly contested battles.
 
Note-A-Bulls:
  • Wickham's Wall – Goalkeeper Jahiem Wickham has allowed just four goals through the first four matches, posting a season of high five saves in the win over FGCU.
  • Hot Starts – USF has scored first in three of four matches this season, setting the tone early in games.
  • Entering the Ranks – The Bulls entered the top-25 rankings in both the TopDrawerSoccer rankings (no. 25) and United Soccer Coaches Poll (no. 22).

Series History
The Bulls and Knights have a long-standing rivalry dating back to 1979, with USF holding an edge in the all-time series (27-9-4). Last season's meeting saw the teams battle to a 0–0 draw.
 
Promotions:
Theme: War on I-4 / Rivalry Night – Celebrating the in-state battle against UCF.
Giveaway: First 250 fans will receive thunder sticks to keep the energy high.
 
TICKETS
Fans can purchase men's soccer tickets by calling 1-800-GoBulls or at USFBullsTix.com.
 
FOLLOW USF MEN'S SOCCER
To stay up-to-date on the latest USF Men's Soccer news, follow the Bulls on social media (Twitter | Facebook | Instagram).
 
ABOUT USF MEN'S SOCCER
USF Men's Soccer competed in the school's first-ever intercollegiate athletic contest on Sept. 25, 1965, beating Florida Southern 4-3. Since then, the oldest program on campus has built a winning tradition, claiming 14 conference championships and making 22 NCAA Tournament appearances, including three trips to the Elite Eight.
 
The program also has a strong reputation within the professional game and boasts 30 MLS draft picks. Notable alumni include two-time MLS Golden Boot winner Jeff Cunningham, USA 1994 World Cup star Roy Wegerle, and 2013 MLS Cup winner Dom Dwyer. Men's Soccer has three Alumni and a coach in the USF Athletics Hall of Fame: Fergus Hopper, Jeff Attinella, Jeff Cunningham & Dan Holcomb.
 
– #GoBulls –
 
 
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