Enemy Scouting Report - Boston Legacy FC
(image via Boston Legacy FC)
After a hard-fought win on the road against San Diego to open the season, the Houston Dash return home to host one of the NWSL’s newest franchises, Boston Legacy FC, in their home opener.
This marks the first-ever meeting between the two clubs, with the Dash aiming to start the all-time series on the right foot.
Boston, meanwhile, is coming off a challenging debut. They picked up five yellow cards and a red card in a 1–0 loss to reigning NWSL champions NJ/NY Gotham FC.
Key Players
Casey Murphy
The former USWNT goalkeeper anchors the Boston back line with her experience. With over 140 league appearances, she’s widely regarded as a top shot-stopper and a steady presence in goal.
Nichelle Prince
A versatile player with a decade of league experience, Prince appears to be a focal point for this expansion side. In the match against Gotham FC, she showed her ability to contribute across the pitch, dropping into defense and joining the attack when needed.
Ella Stevens
A 2025 NWSL champion and inaugural CONCACAF W Champions Cup winner, Stevens brings leadership and a winning mentality to a new team looking to establish its identity.
Head Coach
Filipa Patão
Patão spent five years with SL Benfica before joining Boston Legacy FC, compiling an impressive 156-28-15 record across all competitions. During her time there, Benfica reached the UEFA Women’s Champions League quarterfinals in the 2023–24 season, the deepest run in club history. A proven winner, she also captured five consecutive Campeonato Nacional titles.
Last Match Staring XI (from fotmob.com)
Here’s how Boston lined up for their last game, a 1-0 loss to Gotham.
2026 Roster
Goalkeepers: Casey Murphy, Hannah Stambaugh, Laurel Ivory
Defenders: Bianca St-Georges, Emerson Elgin, Jorelyn Carabali, Kaka, Lais Araujo, Laurel Ansbrow, Nicki Hernandez
Midfielders: Alba Cano, Aleigh Gambone, Annie Karich, Barbara Olivieri, Chloe Ricketts, Josefine Hasbo, Sophia Lowenberg
Forwards: Aissata Traore, Amanda Allen, Amanda Gutierres, Ella Stevens, Fauzia Najjemba, Nichelle Prince, Sammy Smith
