UPDATE: The Houston Dash secured a crucial 1-0 victory against the Chicago Stars on Friday night, breaking the Stars’ seven-game unbeaten streak. This win keeps the Dash’s playoff hopes alive as they fight for a spot in the postseason.
Yazmeen Ryan netted her fourth goal of the season with a powerful strike from 15 yards out in the 28th minute, capitalizing on a turnover outside the Stars’ box. The Dash, now 7-9-5, remain in ninth place, just two points behind the eighth-place North Carolina Courage for the last playoff spot.
The Stars—currently at the bottom of the standings with a record of 2-10-9—struggled to recover from Ryan’s goal. A missed penalty kick by Ryan late in the game could have doubled the lead, but Stars goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher made a critical save to keep the scoreline tight.
In a twist of fate, the Dash played the majority of the match with backup goalkeeper Abby Smith, who stepped in after starter Jane Campbell exited due to a leg injury in the 13th minute. Smith delivered an impressive performance, recording six saves and securing her second clean sheet of the season.
Meanwhile, the North Carolina Courage also made headlines with a late 1-0 win against the Orlando Pride, thanks to Shinomi Koyama‘s goal in the 89th minute. This victory pushed the Courage (now 7-7-7) into the eighth playoff spot, marking a significant turnaround after a challenging six-game winless streak.
In another match, the Utah Royals triumphed over Racing Louisville 3-2, with Mina Tanaka shining by scoring and assisting. Tanaka’s early goal in the 13th minute set the tone, and despite a fierce comeback attempt from Racing, the Royals held on for the win.
The standings are tightening as teams vie for playoff positions. The Dash’s victory is vital as they look to build momentum, while the Stars will need to regroup quickly to end their disappointing season.
Fans are urged to stay tuned as the NWSL playoff race heats up, with critical matches approaching that could change the fate of several teams.
