RICHARDSON, Texas — Cal State East Bay opened the 2026 season Thursday against the nation's top-ranked team, falling 5-0 to No. 1 Midwestern State at the UTD Soccer Complex.
For much of the opening half, the Pioneers kept the match within reach despite sustained pressure from the Mustangs.
Goalkeeper Adan Corona helped keep Midwestern State off the board early, making a pair of saves in the opening 31 minutes. East Bay generated its first dangerous opportunity in the 27th minute when Bennett Richards put a shot on target, followed by another shot on goal from Julian Valle in the 36th.
Midwestern State finally broke through in the 42nd minute when Jose Ortiz scored from the top of the box, sending East Bay into halftime trailing just 1-0.
The Pioneers came out of the break looking for an equalizer. Richards generated a pair of chances early in the second half, including attempts in the 48th and 54th minutes, but East Bay was unable to find the tying goal.
Midwestern State instead doubled its advantage in the 51st minute before Liam Kervick made it 3-0 in the 60th. The Mustangs then created separation during a quick sequence shortly after.
Corona stopped an Ortiz penalty kick in the 62nd minute, but Ortiz converted the rebound to extend the lead. Just 11 seconds later, Ortiz struck again from distance to make it 5-0.
East Bay continued to push forward over the closing stages. Valle put his second shot on goal of the match on frame in the 80th minute, while Alejandro Zarate added another attempt shortly after.
Richards led the Pioneers with three shots, including one on goal, while Valle recorded two shots, both on target. East Bay finished with six shots overall and three on goal. Corona played all 90 minutes and recorded seven individual saves, with East Bay also credited with a team save in the second half.
Cal State East Bay continues its season-opening trip to Texas on Saturday against UT Dallas. Kickoff is scheduled for 5:00 p.m. at the UTD Soccer Complex.
