Houston Dash Return Home Looking to Reset Against Resilient Chicago Stars
(image via Houston Dash)
After three straight road games, the Houston Dash are back home tonight to face the Chicago Stars. The Dash are looking to bounce back from their first loss in seven matches — a setback against the Utah Royals — while the Stars enter the matchup coming off a draw with a strong Portland Thorns side.
When: Friday, September 19 | 7:00 PM CT
Where: Shell Energy Stadium; Houston, Texas
TV/Stream: NWSL+
Radio: PTS Media/Deporte Nation (Spanish)
Back to Reality
The loss to the Utah Royals brought the Dash back down to earth. While disappointing, it may have been the reset they needed, according to head coach Fabrice Gautrat. Many fans and analysts felt Houston should have taken all three points against the league’s bottom side, but setbacks like this can serve as reminders that no match is easy — especially with so many teams fighting to keep playoff hopes alive. With time still on their side, the Dash now have a chance to regroup and refocus before the final stretch.
Six Games Left
Including this matchup, six games remain on the Dash’s schedule. On paper, Chicago may be the most favorable opponent left, as the rest of Houston’s slate is packed with playoff contenders. That means every result is crucial. While the Dash may enter several of those games as underdogs — especially against sides like the Washington Spirit and Kansas City Current — grabbing three points now would provide momentum and put added pressure on their rivals.
Stubborn Stars
Since the league’s summer break, Chicago has transformed into one of the hardest teams to beat, currently unbeaten since returning to league play. Before the break, they lacked direction and struggled after a midseason coaching change. Now, they’ve developed a resilient identity and are difficult to break down. Brazilian forward Ludmila has been central to their resurgence, scoring six goals and adding an assist since the restart. Containing her will be a major challenge for Houston if they hope to snap Chicago’s run.
Availability Report
Houston Dash – Out: Maggie Graham (SEI-shoulder), Amanda West (SEI-knee), Sophie Schmidt (SEI-knee); Questionable: Ryan Gareis (illness)
Chicago Stars - Out: Shea Groom (SEI), Mallory Swanson (maternity leave), Jenna Bike (lower leg), Ivonne Chacon (excused absence), Natalia Kuikka (thigh), Maitane (excused absence), Cari Roccaro (excused absence)
Predicted Lineup
