Missouri State University junior Alex Matthews has been named to the 2025 American Preseason All-Conference Team, according to an announcement Monday. The Bears are entering their first season as an affiliate member of the American Athletic Conference and have been picked fifth in the league’s preseason poll, earning one first-place vote.
The United Soccer Coaches preseason poll ranks Missouri State at number 24 nationally. In the conference poll, Charlotte is favored to win with 58 points. FIU (47), Memphis (46), South Florida (46), and Missouri State (45) follow closely, with just two points separating second through fifth place.
Matthews played the most minutes for the Bears last season and was recognized as a United Soccer Coaches All-America Third Team member. He was also listed as a Defender to Watch for 2025 by the same organization earlier this month. The Derbyshire, England native serves as team captain this year and received first-team all-Missouri Valley Conference honors last season.
Missouri State opens its 2025 campaign on Thursday at 7:30 p.m., hosting Seattle at Betty and Bobby Allison South Stadium. Seattle is currently just outside the United Soccer Coaches Top 25 Poll.
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