News Summary
The Michigan State University men’s soccer team secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory against the University of Michigan, successfully defending the Big Bear Trophy for the fifth consecutive year. This match marked Michigan’s first loss of the season and showcased MSU’s dominance in the rivalry, with significant contributions from players and strategic substitutions by the coaching staff. The Spartans’ win is a significant achievement, particularly for the senior class, who have maintained possession of the trophy throughout their collegiate careers. Next, they will host Penn State as they continue their season.
Ann Arbor – The Michigan State University (MSU) men’s soccer team defeated the University of Michigan (U-M) 2-1 on September 30, 2025, at the U-M Soccer Stadium, successfully defending the Big Bear Trophy for the fifth consecutive year. The Spartans’ victory handed Michigan its first loss of the season and marked a significant achievement in this heated rivalry.
The match attracted a sellout crowd, with both teams’ supporters proudly wearing their school colors. Throughout the game, the Spartans dominated possession and controlled the tempo, creating multiple scoring opportunities against the Wolverines’ defense. In the first half, MSU significantly outperformed Michigan, limiting the Wolverines to few scoring chances.
Momentum shifted in the second half when MSU was awarded a penalty five minutes after the restart. Peter Soudan was tripped by Michigan’s goalkeeper while pursuing a pass, allowing Miles Merritt to convert the penalty kick for his first career goal against Michigan. However, the Wolverines quickly equalized when an MSU own goal occurred due to a deflected shot from a corner kick.
MSU regained the lead in the 63rd minute thanks to a goal from Richie Ludwig, assisted by freshman Chimnosoh Okeke. This goal marked Ludwig’s second of the season and proved crucial as it provided the Spartans with a 2-1 advantage. In response to the shift in play, MSU head coach Damon Rensing strategically substituted in an extra defender to bolster the Spartan defense, helping to maintain their lead until the final whistle.
This victory is particularly notable for the senior class on the Spartans’ roster, who have successfully held onto the Big Bear Trophy throughout their collegiate careers. Rensing emphasized the team’s growing performance level, highlighting their recent success against top-five ranked opponents.
The match also marked MSU’s first victory against Michigan in Ann Arbor since 2017. Overall, this win represents the Spartans’ 15th victory against the Wolverines since the introduction of the Big Bear trophy in 2000.
Looking ahead, Michigan State is scheduled to host Penn State at DeMartin Stadium on October 3, 2025, as they continue their season.
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Additional Resources
- MSU Spartans Official Site
- Wikipedia
- MGoBlue
- Google Search: Michigan State Soccer
- Lansing State Journal
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Michigan State University
- WLIX News
- Google News: Michigan Soccer
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