2019 NWSL Regular Season – Week 19

Chicago Red Stars vs Houston Dash

SeatGeek Stadium, Bridgeview, IL

September 8 at 5pm CT

CHICAGO — The final stretch of the season returns to SeatGeek Stadium for Chicago to look to earn three points against Houston Dash. With five games remaining and four points separating the third-placed Red Stars from seventh place, the hunt for the NWSL playoffs is once again incredibly close. Currently, in seventh place, the Houston Dash will look to take points on the road but have yet to succeed against Chicago. Kickoff from SeatGeek Stadium is scheduled for 5pm CT. 

Where to Watch

TV: NBC Sports Chicago 

Stream: Yahoo Sports 

Additionally, authenticated regional subscribers of NBC Sports Chicago can watch the live stream of the game at NBCSportsChicago.com/WatchLive.

Opponent Form

Despite a stoppage-time goal from Kealia Ohai in the 94th minute, the Dash was unable to overcome two first-half goals from Carli Lloyd and suffered a 2-1 defeat to Sky Blue FC in their previous game. The Dash currently sits seventh in the National Women’s Soccer League standings with six games left on the season but enter Sunday’s match only six points away from playoff qualification.

Storylines

Never Catch Me: Chicago’s matchup against Jane Campbell on Sunday will be the team’s third matchup in five games against goalkeepers who are among the top three in saves this season. Campbell’s 50 saves put her at third in the NWSL rankings. Out of Houston’s six wins this season, five have come along with a Campbell clean sheet, which puts her at third in the league in this category as well. However, the Red Stars have been successful against the goalkeeper this season, putting three goals past her in the two games played. 

Don’t Play: The Dash’s current place in the NWSL standings does not reflect the number of competitive matchups they have been involved in this season. Out of the team’s eight losses, six of them were decided by one goal. Chicago’s two wins over Houston have come with that narrow margin as the Red Stars defense held on to a one-goal lead for a combined 147 minutes over the two games. In their previous matchup back in July, Houston had more shots and held more possession than Chicago, but it was the Red Stars who took advantage of their opportunities and took home three points with a 1-0 win. 

Butterfly Effect: Sunday’s game is the start of a three-game stretch over seven days for Chicago. The Red Stars are coming off three tough losses, but continue to find themselves right in the hunt for one of the four coveted playoff spots. A season sweep over the Dash will keep Chicago in one of the top four spots. With the playoff race as tight as it is with the season winding down, points during this stretch of games will be crucial for the Red Stars, who seek a fifth consecutive NWSL playoff berth.