The Game of the Week is in East Lansing on Friday at 7:00 p.m. when No. 3 Maryland (6-0-1) takes on No. 1 Michigan State (7-0). The Spartans have been outstanding this season defensively with only one goal conceded from seven goals. The challenge for the teams playing the Spartans this season has been how to break down an organized defense that works hard for all 90 minutes. 

Maryland has the pieces to break down any defense in college soccer, but the question will be on the Terps defense to thwart any counterattack that the Spartans can muster in the Big Ten matchup. 

Spartans’ goalkeeper Jimmy Hague is the player to watch in this clash. The redshirt junior has 19 saves this season with only one goal conceded. 

Other Game to Watch 

No. 5 Virginia (5-0-1) vs. No. 13 North Carolina (7-1), Friday, Sept. 22, 7:00 p.m. (ET)

The Cavaliers host the Tar Heels in the best game from the ACC from this weekend. The Tar Heels rolled to a 4-1 win over George Washington on Tuesday, but George Washinngton made the headlines for this wonder goal. 

Stat of the Week 

Grand Canyon University is averaging 2,202 fans per home game this season. The Arizona program is 2-1 at home to start the season and takes on Oral Roberts at home on Friday. GCU’s home stadium, The Lopes Stadium, opened in 2016 to a crowd of 6,402 people, is considered one of the best in college soccer, and a must-visit for college soccer fans. 

MLS Prospect of the Week 

Mauro Cichero, SMU, is a 6-3 forward from Norman, Oklahoma. He has five goals, four assists this season for the Mustangs. After an injury shortened junior campaign, Cichero has bounced back this season as one of the main weapons for SMU. His flair and physicality have made him one of the top prospects from the AAC. 

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