The UTEP soccer team is set to host Cochise College for a free exhibition match at 6 p.m. on Saturday, marking their first home fall friendly since 2022. Under fourth-year head coach Gibbs Keeton, the Miners aim to showcase a mix of returning players and new talent as they prepare for their inaugural season in the Mountain West. Fans can look forward to seeing seven returning starters and 14 letter winners, along with 12 newcomers, including six Division I transfers. Following this match, UTEP will kick off its regular season with two home games against Lamar and Sul Ross State.

By the Numbers
  • UTEP returns seven starters and 14 letter winners from last season.
  • 12 newcomers have joined the team, featuring six DI transfers.
Yes, But

While the exhibition provides a chance for fans to see the team, it鈥檚 essential to note that the performance in this match may not fully reflect the team鈥檚 capabilities in the upcoming competitive season.

State of Play
  • UTEP's exhibition match is the first since their last fall friendly in 2022.
  • The Miners are focused on transitioning into Mountain West competition starting this season.
What's Next

Following the exhibition, UTEP will begin their 2026 season with home games against Lamar and Sul Ross State, setting the stage for their competitive journey in the Mountain West.

Bottom Line

The exhibition match offers a critical opportunity for UTEP's new and returning players to gel as a team before embarking on a challenging season in a new conference.