SAN ANTONIO -- Following a 3-0 start, the University of the Incarnate Word women's soccer team has embarked on arguably the most challenging regular season stretch in program history.

After previously only playing three games against power conference teams in program history, the Cardinals drew the Power 4 in three straight games, a stretch that began with a 5-1 loss at Southern Methodist University on Sunday.

The run will continue with a nearly 1,400-mile trip to Florida to take on Miami on Thursday before wrapping it close to home with a Sunday matchup at the University of Texas.

Here's a look what awaits the Cardinals this week.
 

Miami (3-1)

WHEN AND WHERE: Thursday, 7 p.m., Cobb Stadium (Coral Gables, Fla.)

ABOUT THE HURRICANES: After a 2-0 loss to Jacksonville to open the season, the Hurricanes have rebounded with three-consecutive shutout wins, highlighted by a 1-0 thriller over Lipscomb on Sunday, when Zoie Fontenot delivered the game-winner with just one second to play. Keeper Atlee Olofson has made 11 saves over the past three games, with the Hurricanes out-shooting their opponents 51-19 during their win streak.

MATHCUP HISTORY: This is the first ever matchup between the two teams.

TEXAS (3-0-1)

WHEN AND WHERE: Sunday, 7 p.m., Mike A. Myers Stadium and Soccer Field (Austin)

ABOUT THE LONGHORNS: Texas has also been stout defensively, allowing just one goal through four games, which came in a 1-1 tie with Arizona State. Amalia Villarreal has a team-best three goals, including the game-winner in the 74th minute of a 1-0 win over Pittsburgh on Aug. 16. Goalie Bayliss Flynn has recorded 10 saves while playing all 360 minutes of action thus far. Prior to Sunday, the Longhorns will also host Baylor on Thursday.

MATHCUP HISTORY: This is the first ever matchup between the two programs.
 

FOLLOW ALONG   

For the most up-to-date information on UIW Athletics, visit uiwcardinals.com, follow the Cardinals on X @UIWAthletics. 

Follow the team on X @UIWWomensSoccer and on Instagram @uiwwsoccer.