The Laredo Heat soccer team will play their first away game of the 2025 USL League Two season on May 24 against Lonestar in Round Rock, Texas. After a strong 4-1 home victory over Hill Country, the Heat aim to continue their winning streak on the road. The team will also face Kyle on May 28 before returning home to host Corpus Christi on May 31.
A Confident Start at Home
Laredo kicked off the season in dominant fashion with an electrifying 4-1 win in front of their home crowd. The match saw midfielder Volkan Celikkol emerging as a standout performer, scoring two goals and setting the tone for what looks to be a promising campaign. Forwards Ismael Mane and Gael Gallegos also contributed to the scoring tally, displaying the Heat’s offensive depth and aggressive style.
Goalkeeper Marc Bonnaire played a key role in maintaining the lead, making several crucial saves to preserve the scoreline. His presence in goal added a layer of security that gave the team confidence to press forward in attack.
Head coach Johnny Ibarra expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance, emphasizing the importance of maintaining speed and composure. He commended the players for their intensity and focus, particularly given the pressures of a season opener.
Road Challenges Begin in Round Rock
The Heat’s first road test of the season arrives in Round Rock, where they will take on Lonestar SC at the Round Rock Multipurpose Complex. The venue, known for its top-tier facilities, is expected to draw a competitive crowd as both teams seek early momentum in the Lone Star Division.
Lonestar SC enters the match with something to prove after suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat in their opener against Corpus Christi. Hungry for redemption, the team is likely to pose a formidable challenge for Laredo. Historically, encounters between these sides have been intense and closely contested, adding a layer of intrigue to this weekend’s clash.
The game is scheduled for an 8:00 PM kickoff. Fans from both cities are expected to attend, with ticket prices starting at $5, making it an accessible event for local supporters.
Upcoming Fixtures Build on Early Momentum
Following the match in Round Rock, the Heat will travel to Kyle, Texas, for a rematch with Hill Country on May 28. That fixture is likely to carry extra intensity given Laredo’s convincing win in the earlier encounter. A second win over the Lobos would reinforce Laredo’s positioning as an early frontrunner in the division.
The team then returns to PEG Energy Stadium for a highly anticipated home match against Corpus Christi FC on May 31. That game could have significant implications in the standings and is expected to draw large crowds eager to support the Heat’s home campaign.
Eyes on a Championship Return
Laredo’s return to the USL League Two this season marks a significant milestone for the club. After a hiatus of over a decade, the team has re-entered the national spotlight with renewed vigor and a commitment to excellence. Their legacy includes a national championship in 2007, a standard that current players and coaches are aspiring to match.
This season’s squad features a diverse mix of seasoned players and rising talents, each bringing unique strengths to the pitch. With strong leadership, strategic depth, and solid fan support, Laredo is well-positioned to make a deep run in the league.
Community Support and Local Impact
Beyond wins and losses, the return of the Laredo Heat has energized the local community. Youth programs affiliated with the team have seen increased enrollment, and local businesses are reporting a boost in game-day traffic. The team’s community outreach initiatives—ranging from school visits to charity partnerships—are helping foster a strong connection between the club and its supporters.
As the Heat embark on their first road game of the season, the city of Laredo will be watching closely, hopeful that this year’s team can capture the magic of seasons past and inspire a new generation of soccer fans.