Mississippi State soccer kicks off the 2026-27 season by hosting South Alabama in Starkville, marking the debut of head coach Kevin O'Brien. The game, scheduled for 6 p.m. CT on SEC Network+, features a squad with 19 newcomers and three fresh faces on the SEC Preseason Watch List. This matchup marks the fifth straight season the teams will compete, with State having secured two wins and two draws in their recent meetings. Under O'Brien, who has a successful history in coaching, the Bulldogs aim to continue their home non-conference unbeaten streak.

By the Numbers
  • State is 10-0-0 in non-conference regular-season home matches since Aug. 31, 2023.
  • The Bulldogs have recorded four consecutive seasons with 10 or more wins, a feat achieved only three times in the previous 27 years.
State of Play
  • The Bulldogs are coming off a record-setting year with three top-10 victories.
  • South Alabama's goalkeeper Sierra Giorgio is the Sun Belt Preseason Goalkeeper of the Year and boasts an impressive save percentage record.
What's Next

After the match against South Alabama, Mississippi State will travel to Birmingham to face UAB on Sunday, with kickoff set for 7 p.m. on ESPN+.

Bottom Line

As Kevin O'Brien begins his tenure, Mississippi State soccer is positioned for a promising season, with a strong roster and a solid home advantage that could lead to continued success against both familiar and new opponents.