The Cal Poly Mustangs men’s soccer team dropped a tight 1-0 match to the Gonzaga Bulldogs on October 24, 2026, in Spokane, Washington. Gonzaga defender Terry Watson scored the game-winning goal in the seventh minute off a free kick from midfielder Dylan Cantafio. The early goal, which was the first shot on target of the match, proved decisive.
Cal Poly goalkeeper Matthew Guerra recorded a career-high seven saves to keep the Mustangs competitive throughout the contest. Cal Poly’s offense challenged Gonzaga goalkeeper Chema Preciado several times, including efforts by junior midfielder Colin Pearce and forward Charlie Hogan. However, Hogan’s goal in the 76th minute was disallowed after video review due to a foul called on Cal Poly in midfield.
With the loss, Cal Poly remains at five points in the Pac-12 Conference standings and now trails fourth-place UC San Diego by one point for the final spot in the conference tournament. The Mustangs need a victory in their regular-season finale against UC Riverside on October 31 to qualify for postseason play. That game will be hosted at home and broadcast on ESPN+ at 7 p.m.
CSB Take
This narrow 1-0 loss underscores how critical early scoring chances are in competitive Pac-12 matches. Matthew Guerra’s career-best seven saves highlighted Cal Poly’s solid defensive effort, but the early goal put the Mustangs at a lasting disadvantage. The disallowed goal by Charlie Hogan adds to the fine margins affecting Cal Poly’s tournament hopes. Their upcoming must-win game against UC Riverside will be a crucial test to extend their season.
Source: Original report
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