The NWSL playoff race is reaching maximum chaos and Angel City FC are still in the mix of it all. The two-year-old club is once again knocking on the door of the postseason, needing to win out their final two games, as well as some help, to extend their season. Tonight, the team is on the road against the Houston Dash who are also firmly in the playoff race, making this one a battle of must-wins between the two sides.
Drop a đź‘Źđź‘Źđź‘Ź for today’s Starting Xl#Volemos | #NWSL | #HOUvLA | #AngelCityFC pic.twitter.com/Xq3xPmf8e5
— Angel City FC (@weareangelcity) October 8, 2023
The lineup reflected just how much Angel City wanted this match, opting to go heavy on the offense, looking to outscore Houston. The plan was a solid one, but the execution let down the visitors. The club was able to get five shots, with four finding the target, but none found the back of the net. Going into break scoreless and even at the half would have been the next best thing for ACFC, but Houston had other plans.
In the 44th minute, as half was winding down, the Dash flashed that precision passing enroute to a gorgeous goal to take the lead. Some pretty team link-up play was finished off by Andressa who slotted it past the goalkeeper for the lead right before half. The score was also the first NWSL goal for Andressa.
Perfect team build up 🔥
Andressa with a smooth finish for her first NWSL goal! pic.twitter.com/FIKNcCYpvD
— National Women’s Soccer League (@NWSL) October 8, 2023
The second half would have to be much better for Angel City if they wanted to keep postseason hopes alive. They need a win, and anything less would see them eliminated from contention. In the 68th minute a well-timed sub proved the difference for ACFC. Just moments after coming on, Alyssa Thompson was set loose on a nice pass from McCaskill and secured the equalizer after showing off the speed, finishing the run off with a goal.
Just minutes after subbing on, Alyssa Thompson gets the equalizer!! 🤯 pic.twitter.com/ilJDexDFKs
— National Women’s Soccer League (@NWSL) October 9, 2023
It looked like the team were headed for a bittersweet result. Normally a draw is a solid result, but it would have meant the end of the team’s playoff hopes. However, it was Savannah McCaskill to come up absolutely huge in added time. Getting on the end of a ball that somehow ended up right in front of goal, McCaskill poked it past the line to give her side the lead late. Angel City were able to hold on to the lead, taking home the three points going into what is sure to be a bonkers Decision Day. Luckily, the team will also be at home, meaning they will have a full BMO behind them, willing them into the postseason.
A clutch goal from Savannah McCaskill boosts Angel City’s playoff hopes! pic.twitter.com/kHABUg5DTb
— National Women’s Soccer League (@NWSL) October 9, 2023
Thoughts on the result? Leave a comment below!