Dash begin Summer Cup in Kansas City: What to watch for
(image via Houston Dash)
After a two-week hiatus from league action, the Houston Dash return for the NWSL x Liga MX Femenil Summer Cup. Their first group stage match is an away fixture against their perennial rivals, Kansas City Current, who have been exceptional this year. Assistant coach Ricky Clarke will continue to lead the team tonight in head coach Fran Alonso’s absence.
When: Saturday, July 20 | 7:00 PM CT
Where: CPKC Stadium; Kansas City, Missouri
TV/Stream: Paramount +/CBS Sports Golazo
New Tournament, New Challenge
The NWSL Challenge Cup, born out of necessity in 2020 during the COVID pandemic, has become an annual preseason tournament, except for 2023 when it coincided with the regular season. It was changed to a one-match showcase this season. To replace it, in collaboration with six Liga MX Femenil teams, the NWSL has introduced a summer tournament during the Olympic Games. This initiative is crucial for North American women's soccer, which lacks international exposure compared to Europe. It serves as a precursor to the Women's CONCACAF Champions Cup, providing a valuable gauge of league competitiveness against Liga MX sides.
Rising to the Occasion
With key starters absent due to Olympic and international duties, the tournament offers significant opportunities for less experienced players to shine against formidable opposition. Can Heather Hinz or Erin McKinney prove reliable in goal? Will Jyllissa Harris solidify a place in defense? Meanwhile, Belle Briede and Sophie Hirst seek to regain form in midfield. Allysha Chapman, returning from maternity leave, is aiming to regain match fitness, which will be crucial before league play resumes.
Big Test against KC
Kansas City Current enters the tournament in stellar form, despite injuries to key players like Bia Zaneratto and Alex Pfieffer. Led by players such as Temwa Chawinga, Michelle Cooper, and Debinha, they remain formidable. This match marks the third encounter between the Dash and KC this season, testing Houston's growth and ability to learn from past encounters, even with a depleted squad.
Availability Report
Houston Dash – Out: Ramona Bachmann (international duty), Sarah Punitgam (international duty), Elin Rubensson (international duty), Michelle Alozie (international duty), Jane Campbell (international duty), Tarciane (international duty), Cece Kizer (illness), Andressa (illness), Ryan Gareis (maternity leave), Katie Lind (maternity leave), Havana Solaun (knee), Croix Soto (COVID protocol), Amanda West (COVID protocol), Kiki Van Zanten (SEI); Questionable: Sophie Hirst (ankle)
Kansas City Current – Out: Stine Ballisager (international duty), Hanna Glas (international duty), Claire Lavogez (international duty), Lauren (international duty), Nichelle Prince (international duty), Bia Zaneratto (foot), Gabrielle Robinson (SEI), Alex Pfeiffer (SEI), Mallory Weber (SEI); Questionable: Elizabeth Ball (upper leg)
Predicted Lineup
