Three players to watch: Utah Royals FC

(image via Utah Royals FC)

Each week we’ll be looking more into the Houston Dash’s opponent, talking to media that covers the team, digging into what we can expect from that squad, and in this series, taking a look at three players to watch from the upcoming opponent. The Dash are back home tonight to take on the Utah Royals. Here are three players to keep an eye on from the Royals in this match.

Mandy McGlynn

A cornerstone of the Virginia Tech lineup throughout her collegiate career, McGlynn earned Female Player of the Year honors in 2022 while starring for Swedish side Piteå IF. After returning to the NWSL, she helped Gotham FC secure the 2023 Championship. Now with Utah, the experienced 26-year-old made 84 saves in 24 league appearances last season while also breaking in to the US Women’s National Team. In 2025, she’s already tallied 10 saves in five games, including a clean sheet—proving once again she’s a reliable presence in goal who shouldn’t be underestimated.

Brecken Mozingo

With several key absences in Utah’s attack, including Japanese international Mina Tanaka, Brecken Mozingo will be called upon to help carry the load. The 24-year-old has yet to find the net in 2025, but her flair for the spectacular—something she regularly showed collegiately at BYU—means she remains a threat to break through at any moment.

Claudia Zornoza

Spain’s Claudia Zornoza is Utah’s go-to set-piece taker and a standout midfielder known for her long-range shooting ability. She typically dictates play from deep, and the team often flows through her when building attacks. Though her passing accuracy is off to a slow start this season—currently in the 42nd percentile at 75.7%—she ranks in the 90th percentile in progressive passes. A proven leader, Zornoza’s influence could be decisive if Utah strikes first.