With the men’s soccer season here, teams throughout the country start with a common goal — reaching Cary, N.C., for the College Cup. Last season, Vermont broke through and won the program’s first-ever national championship. That historic run showed that new contenders can emerge and alter the balance of college soccer.
Several programs have developed into consistent tournament threats but are still chasing their first College Cup appearance. This fall, four teams stand out as potential College Cup first-timers. Rankings are from the 2025 preseason United Soccer Coaches Poll.
No. 12 Dayton | 14-3-3 (2024 Record)
Dayton’s 2024 campaign was maybe the most successful in program history. The Flyers reached the NCAA tournament’s third round for the first time ever, using their attacking depth to collect 14 wins and claim an Atlantic 10 championship. The 14 wins was the second-most in its history, and along the way, Dayton proved it could handle high-pressure moments with a signature regular-season victory over Indiana. Entering the new year ranked No. 12, the Flyers have the blend of experience and talent to turn last year’s breakthrough into something even bigger — a first-ever College Cup.
Martin Bakken starting the Flyers off HOT 🔥 #UDMSOC // #GoFlyers pic.twitter.com/bcsPavhtAW
— Dayton Men’s Soccer (@DaytonMSoccer) December 1, 2024
No. 19 Penn | 14-4-1 (2024 Record)
Penn has quietly become a steady national presence, building on three straight Ivy League regular-season titles and a NCAA tournament appearance. The Quakers had perfect 7-0 conference record in 2024, leaning on a disciplined defensive unit that held opponents to just over a goal per game. Their strong midfield control frustrated higher-ranked opponents, and a spot in the second round showed they belong in the national conversation. As the preseason No. 19 to start 2025, Penn has both the structure and confidence to be a dark-horse candidate for Cary.
85′ | #12 Penn 1, Princeton 0
WHO ELSE BUT STAS⁉️
WE TAKE THE LEAD WITH FIVE LEFT OF REGULATION!#FightOnPenn🔴🔵⚽️ pic.twitter.com/rxZohd7z5e
— Penn Men’s Soccer (@PennMSoccer) November 9, 2024
No. 20 Western Michigan | 12-3-6 (2024 Record)
Another team that has been knocking on the door for years, Western Michigan won the Missouri Valley Conference in 2023 and had its fourth straight 12-plus win season in 2024. The highlight of their season was a dominant 5-1 victory over SIUE in snowy conditions before falling in the second round of the NCAA tournament. Known for its defensive organization and physical style of play, WMU has consistently proven difficult to break down. With a veteran core returning and another preseason top-25 ranking, the Broncos may finally have the right combination to advance past the Sweet 16 and reach their first College Cup.
Western Michigan men’s soccer braves the elements for NCAA first round win
No. 24 Missouri State | 12-4-2 (2024 Record)
Missouri State has turned into one of the most dominant mid-major programs in the country, winning multiple Missouri Valley titles in recent years. In 2024, the Bears racked up 12 wins by going undefeated in conference play and earned a top-25 finish, though their NCAA tournament stay ended earlier than hoped. With an efficient attack and a stingy defense, Missouri State has the tools to make a deeper run. If the Bears can pair their defensive discipline with more consistent finishing, they have a legitimate shot at pushing through to Cary for the first time.