Freshman Said El Eyssami shined in his collegiate debut, scoring both goals in No. 7 Maryland's 2-1 season-opening victory over Pittsburgh. His first goal came in the 12th minute, followed by another early in the second half, providing an advantage that supported goalkeeper Laurin Mack's five crucial saves. The win marked Maryland's third consecutive unbeaten season opener and highlighted the impact of new players within the team.

By the Numbers
  • Said El Eyssami scored 2 goals in his debut match.
  • Laurin Mack made 5 key saves to secure the victory.
  • Maryland has won 6 consecutive matches against Pitt, improving to 3-0 under coach Cirovski.
State of Play
  • Maryland kicked off the 2026 season with a strong performance on the road.
  • El Eyssami was one of 10 new players making their debuts, showcasing the team's youth and depth.
  • The Terps managed to maintain composure despite being outshot by Pitt.
What's Next

Maryland will host New Haven for their home opener on August 24, presenting another opportunity for the team to build on their successful start. Fans can expect to see how El Eyssami and fellow newcomers will perform in front of a home crowd.

Bottom Line

Said El Eyssami's impressive debut underscores the potential of Maryland's young talent, while the team's strong start bodes well for the rest of the season. Sustaining this momentum will be crucial as the Terps look to solidify their position in college soccer.