ATHERTON, CA – Menlo Men's Soccer wrapped up its Kick-Off Classic weekend on Saturday evening against Fresno Pacific, putting forth a strong effort against the Sunbirds despite falling 3-0. The Oaks continued to battle throughout the full 90 minutes, creating attacking opportunities and showing resilience as they closed out the opening weekend of the 2026 campaign.
Oak Leaders
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Manuel Portillo led Menlo with four shot attempts
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The Oaks put together a strong second-half attacking push, recording seven shots after halftime
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Matti Klause struck the crossbar in the 68th minute
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Menlo earned six corner kicks throughout the match
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Vebjørn Madshus made 2 saves for the Oaks in goal, his collegiate debut
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Menlo continued to push forward until the final whistle, recording attempts in the 83rd, 84th, 88th and 90th minutes
Oaks Continue to Push
After Fresno Pacific built an early advantage, Menlo continued to look for opportunities to break through. Hugo Few recorded one of the Oaks' first attempts of the match, while Portillo helped generate momentum late in the opening half with a shot followed immediately by a Menlo corner kick.
The Oaks came out with renewed energy after the break and immediately created chances in the attacking third. Portillo forced a save less than three minutes into the second half, Few followed with another attempt, and Harnoor Sidhu added a shot as Menlo continued to apply pressure. The closest chance of the evening came in the 68th minute, when Klause found the crossbar, while Portillo and Few continued to create looks as the match moved into its final stages.
Up Next…
Menlo returns to Wunderlich Field on Saturday, September 5, when the Oaks host Northwest Nazarene University at 11:00 am. Menlo will look to carry the lessons and momentum from their opening weekend into their next home match.
