USC Soccer Suffered Losses to Ohio State and Penn State

The Trojans fell in back-to-back matches, continuing a difficult inaugural season in the Big Ten conference.

Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Soccer

Expressive editorial sports illustration of collegiate soccer players in cardinal and scarlet jerseys competing on a green field. — The USC Trojans soccer team fell to 1-7-3 overall after suffering consecutive defeats against Ohio State and Penn State this week. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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USC soccer dropped two consecutive matches, falling 2-0 to Ohio State and 1-0 to Penn State. The losses bring the team's overall season record to 1-7-3.

Why it matters

These results highlight the ongoing challenges for USC in its first season within the Big Ten. The program has struggled offensively, remaining scoreless in six of its 11 matches.

USC has been outscored 11-1 across five Big Ten matches. Goalkeeper Josie Biehl recorded 11 saves during the loss to Ohio State, while the team failed to record a single shot against Penn State.

The players

Josie Biehl

She is a goalkeeper for the USC soccer team who recorded 11 saves against Ohio State.

Amanda Schlueter

She is a player for Ohio State who scored two goals during the match against USC.

Aubrey Kulpa

She is a player for Penn State who scored the deciding goal in the match against USC.

The details

Amanda Schlueter secured Ohio State's victory with goals in the ninth and 32nd minutes, while Aubrey Kulpa netted the lone goal for Penn State in the 27th minute. The Trojans have been unable to find the back of the net in more than half of their games this season.

September 24, 2026: USC lost to Ohio State.
September 27, 2026: USC lost to Penn State.
October 3, 2026: USC plays Washington.

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Season Trajectory

The transition into the Big Ten has created a steep learning curve for the USC program. These recent defeats reinforce the competitive disparity the team faces while adjusting to their new conference peers.

USC's conference record stands at 0-4-1, leaving them with limited path to climb the Big Ten standings. The lack of shots against Penn State indicates significant issues in the team's transition and offensive rotation.

The takeaway

USC must address its scoring drought to remain competitive in its new conference environment. Fans should look for tactical adjustments in the upcoming match against Washington.