CHICAGO – The Chicago Red Stars return to SeatGeek Stadium for a matchup against Sky Blue FC on Saturday, July 6 at 7 pm CT. Here’s what you need to know about our upcoming opponent: 

Transactions

Amid controversy, this offseason Sky Blue FC’s roster has undergone some big changes. It began with a busy two days during the NWSL Draft Weekend. Forward Katie Johnson was traded to Chicago in exchange for the sixth overall selection in the following day’s College Draft. On draft day, they sent the third overall pick to Washington in exchange for defender Caprice Dydasco, goalkeeper DiDi Haracic, and defender Estell Johnson, who represented Cameroon in this year’s World Cup. Their biggest addition came four days after the draft when they traded for World Cup Champion and former Japanese international Nahomi Kawasumi from Reign FC in exchange for Shea Groom. 

It hasn’t been all positive news, however, for Saturday’s opponents. Their top two overall selections in the draft, Hailie Mace and Julia Ashley, decided to not sign a contract with the team and play overseas. Promising talent Savannah McCaskill was also traded to Chicago just two weeks ago for more draft picks in the 2020 NWSL College Draft and following a run of form that saw them gain only two points from nine games, Denise Reedy was relieved from her head coaching duties. 

Who’s Hot

Raquel Rodriguez leads the team with two goals and one assist this season, being directly involved in half of Sky Blue’s goals. Her two goals this season came in consecutive weeks this May against Washington Spirit and Reign FC respectively. 

Recent Form

Sky Blue FC snagged points against Portland and North Carolina in consecutive weeks this season, but since then have lost their last five games. Their most recent defeat was a heartbreaker, as an own goal in the 81st minute gave the 2-1 win to the Orlando Pride. 

Fun Fact to Know

Sky Blue FC currently leads the league in fair play this season, obtaining the fewest yellow cards in the NWSL with 6.