The series between the Muskies and Cougars has been a close one, though Lakeland is undefeated in the last four matchups. The Muskies won last year's matchup 1-0 at home Sept. 21, 2024, as Porter Gigstead scored the match's lone goal with an assist from Brahm Dell Adema just over 13 minutes in. Lakeland also won the last time the teams played in River Forest, taking a 4-2 win in 2023 as Jordan Davis-Troller, Michecadet Gethand, Michael Barragan and Dirk Dell Adema all scored goals. Before this recent 3-0-1 stretch for the Muskies, CUC had won five of the last six matchups, including a 2-1 win at Lakeland Oct. 5, 2019. The teams have been meeting since Oct. 14, 2001, when the Muskies edged the Cougars 1-0 in the teams' first meeting.

Lakeland last time out: Lost to Marian 2-0 Wednesday
The Muskies fell behind midway through the first half and never could break through for a goal in a frustrating loss at home to the rival Sabres. Marian scored in the 26th minute and then packed in the defense in the second half, with Lakeland holding possession for a good share of the second 45 minutes but unable to get many quality chances, especially in the final 30 minutes. The Sabres then added a final goal in the game's last minute to put it away. Jordan Davis-Troller and Austin Eigenberger-Vahsholtz led Lakeland with three shot attempts each and Andrew Davison made two saves in goal.

Concordia last time out: Lost at Illinois Tech 3-1 Wednesday
The Cougars also remained winless in the NACC, falling on the road in Chicago to the Scarlet Hawks. IIT scored twice in the first half, including the opening goal 10 minutes in, while Concordia scored its lone goal on a penalty kick by Justin Ocampo with 6:22 left in the match. CUC had chances, finishing with 14 shot attempts, just three less than Illinois Tech. Chase Zizak made six saves for the Cougars, who have lost seven straight after opening with a tie against Lawrence and a win over Andrews (Mich.).