Denver Men’s Soccer started its 2026 season last night with a 2-2 draw with the Cal Poly Mustangs at the University of Denver Soccer Stadium. The Pioneers held a 2-1 lead until the 88th minute, when Cal Poly tied it and kept the hosts from earning a season-opening victory.
The visitors from San Luis Obispo, California, were the first to score in the 23rd minute. Senior defender Dominic Kallay tied the score for the Pioneers eight minutes later. It was Kallay’s first career goal after not playing since the 2023 season due to injury. The Mustangs had three shots on goal in the first half to only one for Denver. DU committed three fouls to Cal Poly’s seven in the first half.
Denver held a 2-1 lead for most of the second half as junior forward Keegan Kelly scored from close in at 50′. 5th Year Forward Bryce Willoughby had a good scoring opportunity at 71′ but could not convert. Cal Poly again led in the shots on goal category with a 5-2 margin in the second half. Fouls were tied at 3-3.
Going into the game, the Pioneers held a 5-2-2 edge against the Mustangs in the all-time series.
The Pioneers had a good effort from freshman goalkeeper Alex Hohl from Castle Pines, Colorado. His lack of college experience is something to note for the 2026 season.
Next up, DU travels to Stanford for a Sunday, August 23 match against the #10 Cardinal.
Top photo: A fan celebrates as DU takes a 2-1 lead on Cal Poly
Weak effort. Totally not outplayed. Lucky to come away with a tie.
First half, Denver was not connecting passes and controlling the pace. The first 20 minutes of the second half they started to connect but Cal Poly’s speed showed. DU went into a defensive shell too early and, ultimately, paid the price. It only gets tougher from here.