For the latest on UI soccer courtesy Brian Moline, click here
For the first time since 2005, Illinois and Illinois State will play in soccer.
The Redbirds will open their season with a 7 p.m. match in Champaign on Aug. 21. The Illini lead the all-time series 5-2-1, including a 3-0 win in the last meeting in 2005.
"We always try to challenge ourselves with tough competition in preconference play," Illinois State coach Drew Roff said. "Illinois is a tough competitor, and the game will help us see how we stack up against NCAA tournament participants. It will be a fun way to start the season."