Houston Dash vs Washington Spirit staff picks

(image via Houston Dash)

The Houston Dash will look to open the 2025 season with a result in tonight’s home opener. We asked our staff for their predictions on the match against the Washington Spirit.

Rudy - 3-1 Dash loss
(Record: 0-0)

The season opener is here, and the excitement is infectious. This match will serve as an important measuring stick for new head coach Fabrice Gautrat, offering a first look at how his offseason work has translated onto the field. However, despite Washington’s injury struggles, their available squad still boasts more collective talent than the Dash, who are adjusting to a new system under their new coach. With so many uncertainties, this game could provide early insights into the road ahead for Houston.

Dustyn - 2-0 Dash loss
(Record: 0-0)

This is a big ask for any team, playing the Washington Spirit a week after they lifted the NWSL Challenge Cup. It’s even bigger of an ask for a team with a new head coach and a number of new players. Washington isn’t at full strength yet but they are still incredibly talented. If the Dash can hang with the Spirit for 90 minutes in their first match together under Fabrice Gautrat, it will be a success.

Manny - 3-0 Dash loss
(Record: 0-0)

The season opener against the newly crowned NWSL Challenge Cup winners won’t be easy! Washington will want to come out with a statement win to follw up their cup win. The Dash are in another rebuilding phase with a new coach and changed squad. It’s going to be a huge test for the Dash to overcome.

Joey - 1-0 Dash loss
(Record: 0-0)

While the Dash may have made some improvements this offseason, I am yet to be confident that this is a contending team until I see it in action. There are way too many maybes, especially early in the season. I’m expecting a boring game between a team yet to have an identity and a Washington team with some injury concerns.