CLINTON, Miss. — The Mississippi College men's soccer team continued its strong start to the 2025 season, climbing one spot to No. 8 in this week's United Soccer Coaches South Region Rankings, released Tuesday afternoon.

The Choctaws (5-1-4, 3-0-2 GSC) rose from No. 9 after extending their unbeaten streak to five matches, including three straight victories. Mississippi College has outscored opponents 12-4 during that stretch, highlighted by Gulf South Conference wins over Delta State (3-1) and Blue Mountain Christian (5-2).

Under the leadership of head coach Rafael Costa, the Choctaws have established themselves as one of the GSC's most balanced and resilient teams. Their lone loss of the season came against top-ranked Lynn University, which also leads this week's national poll.

Mississippi College is one of four Gulf South Conference programs featured in the South Region top 10, joining West Florida (No. 4), Tampa (No. 5), and Auburn Montgomery (No. 10).

The Choctaws return to conference play this weekend with a two-match road trip, visiting Alabama Huntsville on Friday at 7:30 p.m. before traveling to West Alabama on Sunday at 3:30 p.m.