5 Things to Know: Wisconsin hosts a pair

Wisconsin

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Hartford

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Game Coverage

Monday, Aug. 27 | 7pm — Madison, Wis.

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MADISON, Wis. – After dropping its season-opening contest to Grand Canyon on Friday night 2-1, the Badgers (0-1) look to capitalize on a three-game home stint at the McClimon Soccer Complex that starts on Monday.

1. WHO'S UP FIRST: Wisconsin's first challenge at home this season is Hartford, a team that tied in-state rival Green Bay on Friday night to start its season. Hartford posted a losing 5-10-3 record a season ago, including a 1-5-1 record in the America East Conference. The Badgers will square off against the Hawk at the McClimon Soccer Complex on Monday night at 7 p.m. (CT).

2. WHO'S UP SECOND: The Badgers enjoy four days off before heading out under the lights at the McClimon Complex for a second home match against Fordham. Fordham checks in at No. 16 in the United Soccer Coaches poll, four spots behind Wisconsin previous to the Cardinal and White's season-opening loss to Grand Canyon. The Rams start the season off 1-0 after a thrilling 2-1 win over Holy Cross to open its season. Fordham posted an impressive 14-6-3 record a season ago and made a run deep into the NCAA tournament, knocking off St. Francis Brooklyn, Virginia, and Duke before falling to then-No. 3 UNC in the quarterfinals.

3. ANDREW AWE-KINDELE: Freshman Andrew Akindele inspired hope in Badger fans on Friday night, despite Wisconsin's 2-1 loss to Grand Canyon. Akindele posted a solid performance in his college debut, knocking home his first career goal on three shots.

4. PAST SUCCESS: Wisconsin has quite a track record for protecting its house. The McClimon Soccer Complex, home to the Cardinal and White, has seen some exquisite success in the past two seasons as the Badgers posted a 16-1-2 record. Wisconsin looks to recreate that same success in the new year.

5. RETURNING LEADERSHIP: Redshirt senior Isaac Schlenker was named captain for the 2018 season. The Milwaukee native was a key member of last year's squad, starting in 18 games and playing in all 22. Schlenker helped the UW defense to eight shutouts on the year and scored a goal against Tulsa. Alongside Schlenker is captain Noah Leibold, a junior out of Wiesbaden, Germany. He's the motor that keeps this Badger squad running. Leibold started and played in all 22 games last season, tallying a goal, an assist, and 16 shots in 1988 minutes of play.