IU Columbus Opens Season With 1-0 Shutout of Governors State

COLUMBUS, IN. — IU Columbus opened its 2026 men’s soccer season on a winning note Wednesday, using an early goal and a strong defensive effort to earn a 1-0 victory over Governors State at NexusPark.

The Crimson Pride found the only goal they would need at the 23:57 mark of the first half.

Maruwe Exauce broke through for the season-opening goal, finishing a chance set up by Michael Mmadi to put IU Columbus ahead 1-0.

From there, the Crimson Pride defense made the advantage stand for the remaining 66-plus minutes.

Goalkeeper Jordin Jones went the full 90 minutes in net for IU Columbus and stopped all four shots he faced on goal to record the clean sheet.

Governors State held an 11-4 advantage in total shots, but IU Columbus was efficient with its opportunities. Three of the Crimson Pride’s four attempts were on target, while the defense prevented Governors State from finding an equalizer.

The victory gives IU Columbus a 1-0 start to the new season.

Scoring Summary

23:57 — IU Columbus: Maruwe Exauce (Michael Mmadi)

Final: IU Columbus 1, Governors State 0