Enemy Scouting Report - Angel City FC
(image via Angel City FC)
The Houston Dash return to action this Saturday following the international break — a break that even brought a taste of Concacaf action to Shell Energy Stadium, where Mexico faced off against Jamaica earlier this week. Now, as the NWSL regular season resumes, the Dash welcome back several key players who were away on international duty as they prepare for a crucial home clash against Angel City FC.
Angel City arrives in Houston as one of the few remaining unbeaten teams in the league, having recorded a win and two draws in their opening three matches. Adding an extra layer of intrigue to the matchup is the presence of former Dash manager Sam Laity, now serving as Angel City’s interim head coach. Laity will surely be motivated to get one over on his former club and extend Angel City’s solid start to the 2024 campaign.
For the Dash, slowing down Angel City’s attack will be key — starting with 20-year-old sensation Alyssa Thompson. The dynamic forward has already notched two goals this season, making her the club’s leading scorer. Thompson’s blistering pace, fearless dribbling, and ability to take on defenders 1v1 make her a constant threat in transition and a handful in open space.
But Thompson isn’t the only weapon the Dash will need to watch closely. Rookie striker Riley Tiernan has quickly established herself as a dangerous presence up top, bringing energy, movement, and a nose for goal to Angel City’s attack. On the wing, Scottish international Claire Emslie provides creativity and experience, often serving as the team’s primary playmaker and set-piece specialist. Together, this trio has helped Angel City look like a team determined to rebound from a disappointing 2024 season.
For Houston, protecting home turf will require a disciplined defensive effort, but also sharpness in the attack — especially as they reintegrate their returning internationals.
Angel City FC Record: 1W-2D-0L
Results in the last 30 days:
March 16 - Angel City FC 1-1 San Diego Wave
March 21 - Portland Thorns 1-1 Angel City FC
March 30 - Angel City FC 2-1 Seattle Reign FC
Last Match Staring XI (from fotmob.com)
2025 Roster
Goalkeepers: Hannah Stambaugh, Angelina Anderson, Bre Norris
Defenders: Savy King, Ali Riley, Megan Reid, Sarah Gorden, Alanna Kennedy, M.A. Vignola, Gisele Thompson, Hannah Johnson, Miyabi Moriya, Elizabeth Eddy, Maithe Lopez (on loan), Vanessa Gilles (on loan)
Midfielders: Katie Zelem, Macey Hodge, Maiara Niehues, Kennedy Fuller, Lily Nabet, Madison Hammond
Forwards: Sydney Leroux, Julie Dufour, Casey Phair, Claire Emslie, Jun Endo, Alyssa Thompson, Christen Press, Riley Tiernan
Can the Dash find the formula for success against unbeaten Angel City?
