Dash Return from Break for Space Race
(image via Diego Martinez)
After the recent international break, the Houston Dash are back and now head to Orlando to face the Pride. The Dash remained in the same position on the table following their draw with Bay FC in their last match, while Orlando climbed into the race for the top spot thanks to their recent win over the Utah Royals.
When: Saturday, June 6 | 6:00 PM CT
Where: Inter & Co Stadium; Orlando, Florida
TV/Stream: NWSL+
New Forward Line
The writing had been on the wall for weeks: Diana Ordóñez was on her way out. Last week, the Dash confirmed her transfer to Tigres Femenil, leaving a significant void in the forward line. Houston currently lacks a like-for-like replacement for Ordóñez. Messiah Bright, who had her contract extended this past week, brings a different profile to the attack—contributing in build-up play but not yet consistently on the scoresheet. Head coach Fabrice Gautrat has experimented with Yazmeen Ryan as a central striker and suggested that Maggie Graham could also fill that role. Gautrat said they have some targets for the upcoming summer transfer window so, whether the Dash pursue reinforcements up front remains to be seen.
Three Games Left
Only three matches remain before the league break and the upcoming summer tournament, which will pause NWSL action until August. These games are critical in identifying areas of improvement and setting the tone for the second half of the season. The Dash sit just three points outside the playoff line, but picking up points against the reigning NWSL Champions, an in-form San Diego Wave, and a consistently solid North Carolina Courage will be a tall order. Still, in football, anything is possible.
A Different Orlando
Teams often lose momentum after winning a title, but the Orlando Pride have done the opposite. They've retained their core and seen players like Marta step up in a big way this season. Though the Pride are playing with a more pragmatic style, they continue to grind out results. For Fabrice Gautrat, this game carries a personal twist as he faces his wife, Morgan Gautrat, a key figure in Orlando’s midfield. If the Dash hope to come away with a result, they'll need to stay sharp and focused throughout the 90 minutes.
Availability Report
Houston Dash – Out: Ramona Bachmann (parental leave); Questionable: Avery Patterson (thigh)
Orlando Pride – Not listed
Predicted Lineup
