With the 2024 Big Ten men’s soccer season right around the corner, the Northwestern Wildcats will look to exceed last season’s better-than-expected performance. The big question here is: Will they succeed? Here we discuss what is at play for the ’Cats before the ball gets rolling.

2023: A season for the books

During the 2023 season, Northwestern Men’s Soccer blew us away with an undefeated streak of 12 games, something the team had not accomplished since 2008. Midway through this past season, they ranked No. 12 in the United Soccer Coaches Top 25 Poll, and scored the highest number of goals (27) seen in the last 10 seasons. Players such as fourth-year forward Justin Weiss, who led the team with seven goals and seven assists, were key to the ’Cats’ performance.

Their first loss did not come until the final two weeks of regular season play at an away game at Penn State. An amazing season came to an end in a defeat against Michigan in the Big Ten Tournament quarterfinals, their first time participating in the conference tournament since 2019.

Now, after a season worthy of a standing ovation, Northwestern Men's Soccer prepares to face a new one that expects them to match, if not exceed, what was done last year.

First green light: Russell Payne

With a multi-year contract extension for head coach Russell Payne announced in late January, Payne begins his fourth season with the ’Cats this August. Under his coaching, Northwestern’s soccer program has improved in performance and accomplishments in the last couple of years. It would not be surprising if the program continues to grow this time around with his leadership. Payne is also an assistant coach for the United States U-23 men's national soccer team at the Paris Olympics this summer, and his experience is sure to come in handy.

Additions from the transfer portal

The team will evidently undergo changes after the recent offseason transfer portal. Weiss has transferred to the Indiana Hoosiers, so Northwestern will need to fill in the attacking gap the forward leaves if they intend to continue playing at a competitive level.

As reinforcements, the ’Cats announced a roster of nine incoming players on July 29. In the mix, Payne has brought in one goalkeeper, three defenders, two midfielders and three forwards.

Some notable players include Thaddaeus Dewing, a prominent goal-scorer. The graduate forward excelled at the United States Air Force Academy, scoring 22 goals and providing nine assists throughout his years as a Falcon. He will most definitely be a player to watch as he arrives in Evanston.

Then there is Joe Suchecki, a rising fourth-year midfielder coming from the University of Maryland. Having played 40 games in his four years with the Terrapins, Suchecki has experience in the Big Ten and will look to bring it to Northwestern. Scoring his fair share of goals (three) during his time in Maryland, the New York native will bolster this season’s midfield.

Finally, in defense, Northwestern has bet on graduate student Bryce LeBel from the University of Louisville. LeBel tallied up 65 games with the Cardinals – starting 64 of those. With Louisville reaching the second round of the NCAA Men’s Soccer Tournament last season, the defender will bring beneficial experience to a Wildcat team hoping to qualify for the first time since 2014.

Key tactics and urgent fix-ups

During the 2023 season, Northwestern Men’s Soccer turned into an attacking force when given the opportunity. They attempted 199 shots, 94 of them shots on goal. Taking advantage of open spaces and a lack of defensive play from opponents allowed them to capitalize during many crucial games as well.

But like any team, they had their flaws. When under pressure, the ’Cats struggled to find clear shots and control ball possession. On top of that, frustration would consume them when on the losing end, evidenced by long and ineffective passes and shots.

If the ’Cats want to turn things around this season, advance further in the Big Ten Tournament and potentially qualify for the NCAA Men’s Soccer Tournament, leveling up in defensive play and making the most of new arrivals will be key to their 2024 journey.

Let the season begin

As the clock ticks down, the ’Cats prepare for two exhibition games, hosting Milwaukee on Aug. 10 and visiting Purdue Fort Wayne on Aug. 16. Their regular season then kicks off on Aug. 22 in a home game against the Green Bay Phoenixes.

Will they manage to pull off another incredible season? Time will only tell.