UPDATE: In a thrilling showdown on July 21, 2023, the Houston Dash secured a crucial 1-0 victory against the Chicago Stars, abruptly halting the Stars’ seven-game unbeaten streak. With this result, the Dash maintain their slim playoff hopes, now sitting at 7-9-5 and just two points shy of the final playoff spot held by North Carolina.
The game’s lone goal came from Yazmeen Ryan, who struck from 15 yards out in the 28th minute after a high turnover by Sam Staab. This win marks a significant moment for the Dash, who have been fighting to stay relevant in the playoff race. In a dramatic twist, Ryan missed a penalty kick in the 89th minute, as Stars goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher dived to deny her a second goal.
Despite facing adversity, including the substitution of starting goalkeeper Jane Campbell due to a leg injury in the 13th minute, backup Abby Smith stepped up, recording her second clean sheet of the season with six saves.
In another exciting matchup, the North Carolina Courage edged past the Orlando Pride with a late 1-0 victory, thanks to a stunning goal from Shinomi Koyama in the 89th minute. This victory propels the Courage to 7-7-7 and into the final playoff spot, while the Pride continue to struggle, having gone winless in their last nine matches.
Meanwhile, the Utah Royals triumphed over Racing Louisville with a thrilling 3-2 win, showcasing an impressive performance from Mina Tanaka, who scored and assisted. The Royals, now 4-11-6, are riding a wave of momentum with three wins in their last four games but remain ten points off a playoff position.
As the season intensifies, every match counts. The Dash aim to build on this victory, while the Stars must regroup after this setback. Fans will be watching closely as playoff positions continue to shift in the NWSL landscape.
