Men’s soccer was ranked No. 2 in the nation by the United Soccer Coaches Top 25 poll on Sept. 23, their fourth straight week in the top 25. This is their highest national ranking since they were ranked No. 1 in 1992.
They were ranked No. 4 in the previous poll before rising to No. 2 following a 3-2 victory against Denver on Sept. 19, their seventh straight match without a loss to start the season. Their 6-0-1 record is their best through seven matches since 1988.
The team has not lost a match since Sept. 22, 2024, creating a 17-game undefeated streak dating back to last season. This is Portland’s longest streak since 1988 and is currently the second longest in the nation.
The team is led in scoring by redshirt sophomore forward Joe Highfield, who is also tied for first in the West Coast Conference (WCC) with five goals. Highfield was named WCC Offensive Player of the Week on Sept. 22.
The Pilots have dominated the conference so far, leading in 14 statistical categories including goals, assists, goal differential — in which they also rank top 10 in the NCAA — and save percentage.
The Pilots’ defense has dominated, giving up only two goals so far this season. Redshirt junior goalkeeper Miguel-Angel Hernandez earned two consecutive WCC Defensive Player of the Week honors on Sept. 8 and Sept. 15.
Portland will play their first conference match at home on Sept. 27 against Gonzaga, who is currently No. 7 in the conference with a 3-3-1 record.
Kaeden Souki is the Sports Editor for The Beacon, he can be reached at souki28@up.edu.
