Photo: Parker Vanden Berg
By Sebastian Quiroz-Gutierrez – @SebastianQuir0z
The University of Illinois Chicago men’s soccer program continues to excel in 2025, opening their campaign 5-0-1 after a 5-3 home win over Western Illinois on Thursday night. The Flames’ high-powered attack once again set the tone, producing their highest goal total in two years to remain unbeaten. Their early season also includes a key 3-2 road victory at Northwestern on Labor Day night — the program’s first win at a Big Ten school since 2016.
Scorching Start
This marks the first time since 2008 that UIC has opened a season unbeaten through six matches. That 2008 squad also began 5-0-1 before advancing to the NCAA Sweet 16 and winning the Horizon League regular-season title. With 19 goals scored through six contests, this Flames side has already set a new program record for offensive output to begin a season since UIC began competing at the Division I level.
Now competing in the Missouri Valley Conference, UIC has shown early signs that they can challenge on multiple fronts thanks to a balanced roster and relentless attack.
Nys Catching Fire
Junior midfielder Edouard Nys, the former NJCAA National Player of the Year, has been unstoppable. Against Western Illinois, he had a hand in four of the Flames’ five goals — scoring twice and assisting on two others. His six-point night was the most for a UIC player since 2019.
Nys has now scored in five straight matches, the longest streak by a Flame since 2019, and leads the MVC with seven goals and 18 points. Already a two-time MVC Offensive Player of the Week this fall, he has also earned a spot on the Top Drawer Soccer National Team of the Week, cementing his place as one of the nation’s most dangerous attackers.
Depth and Balance
UIC’s offensive depth continues to shine. Rui Reis added a goal and an assist against Western Illinois, Darrell Turcios netted his fourth goal of the season, and Hector Gil opened his account with an early header to get the scoring started. Carlos Nevarez contributed his league-leading fifth assist, while Sebastian Khoury picked up his first career assist.
UIC currently ranks among the top 15 nationally in nine NCAA statistical categories, highlighting their efficiency and consistency in the final third.
Eyes on Loyola
The Flames return to action on Monday at 7:00 p.m. CT, traveling across town to face Loyola at Loyola Soccer Park in a matchup that will be streamed live on ESPN+.
With history already being made and a star player in peak form, the Flames are emerging as one of the most compelling early-season stories in college soccer.
