Purdue Northwest Blanks Lewis in Season Opener

Purdue Northwest opened the 2026 men’s soccer season with a road victory Thursday night, defeating Lewis University 1-0 in Romeoville, Illinois.

The match remained scoreless through the opening 45 minutes and well into the second half before Brandon Young delivered the game-winner for the Pride. Young found the back of the net at the 71:19 mark, giving Purdue Northwest a 1-0 advantage. It was Young’s first goal of the season.

Lewis generated more opportunities, outshooting Purdue Northwest 13-6 overall and holding a 6-2 advantage in shots on goal, but freshman goalkeeper Estefano Alvear was outstanding in his collegiate debut. Alvear stopped all six shots on goal he faced over 90 minutes to record the shutout.

Landon Potts led Purdue Northwest with two shots, while Young and Gianluca Franco each put a shot on frame. The teams finished even with one corner kick apiece.

The victory gives Purdue Northwest a 1-0-0 record to begin the 2026 campaign, while Lewis falls to 0-1-0.

The Pride return to action Sunday when they host Northwood University at 3 p.m. Central Time.