Crimson Pride Men Roar in Season Opener, Women Battle to Gritty Draw

It was a tale of two matches under the roof at NexusPark, as IU Columbus men’s soccer stormed to a 4-2 victory while the women’s side held firm in a 0-0 draw.

For the men, former North star Christian Cardoso became the face of the Pride’s firepower, tallying two second-half goals and adding an assist. Kevin Cruz struck first, Alejandro “Pollo” Alvarez followed, and then Cardoso put the game on ice. The Crimson Pride outshot Calumet College of St. Joseph 27-9, proving their claws are sharp early.

The women’s squad was just as determined, blanking Calumet behind split keeper duties from Zoe Bippus and Mallory Gilley. IU Columbus controlled most of the possession and fired 11 shots but couldn’t find the finishing touch. Still, the Pride walked away with a hard-earned point.

Both squads now travel for Labor Day weekend tilts against St. Francis (IL) and Saint Xavier.