The first contest of Iowa State's 2026-27 athletic calendar, an exhibition soccer match versus Minnesota, finished in a 1-1 draw. Despite being outshot 13-1 by the Gophers in the opening 45 minutes, the half ended scoreless. Iowa State was outshot 27-3, Minnesota also held a 13-1 advantage in shots on goal. Iowa State committed more fouls, 12-10, and wasn't caught offside. Iowa State officially starts the season on Wednesdat, Aug. 12, at Omaha.