The No. 13 UC Irvine Anteaters men’s water polo team lost 24-15 to the No. 2 USC Trojans on September 12, 2026, at the Uytengsu Aquatics Center in Los Angeles, Calif. USC dominated early, opening with a 5-0 run in the first quarter. UC Irvine answered with two goals late in the period, reducing the deficit to 5-2.
The Trojans maintained control, leading 11-7 at halftime after a 6-5 second quarter edge. USC then extended its lead by outscoring the Anteaters 8-4 in the third quarter to take a 19-11 advantage entering the final period. In the fourth quarter, USC outpaced UC Irvine 5-4 to secure the victory.
Leading UC Irvine was Cole Francisco, who recorded seven points on three goals and four assists. Wyley Dale contributed five points with three goals and two assists, while Brody Luke scored three goals. Alex Lopez added two goals and two assists. Goalkeeper Vincent Vega played 16 minutes and made seven saves with one steal.
USC was led offensively by Robert Lopez Duart, who scored four goals. The Trojans’ efficient offense and early momentum proved decisive in the matchup.
UC Irvine will next participate in the MPSF Invitational in Palo Alto, Calif., from September 18 to 20.
CSB Take
Although UC Irvine was unable to overcome the strong start and sustained attack of a top-ranked USC, the Anteaters demonstrated offensive depth with multiple players contributing. The game highlighted the importance of strengthening defensive cohesion against elite competition. Heading into the MPSF Invitational, UC Irvine can focus on defensive adjustments and capitalizing on scoring chances to elevate their standing in the conference.
Source: Original report
