The National Women's Soccer League is back in action on Wednesday with midweek action as Houston Dash and OL Reign square off on CBS Sports Network at BBVA Stadium in Houston, Texas. OL Reign are currently in third place in league standings, while Houston is on the outside of playoff position in eighth place. This is the third and final regular meeting between the two sides this season.
Want more coverage of women's soccer? Listen below and make sure to follow Attacking Third, a CBS Soccer Podcast devoted to bringing you everything you need to know from the NWSL and around the globe.
Storylines
Houston Dash: The 2020 Challenge Cup champions have struggled to stay consistent this year, but are coming off a big win last week where they defeated Racing Louisville FC, 1-0. The team also recently announced a short term deal with North Carolina Courage for center back Abby Dahlkemper. The Dash have a strong defensive duo with Katie Naughton and Megan Oyster, so how Dahlkemper will slot it in remains to be seen. The uncertainty means the top line will have to set the tempo with captain Rachel Daly and winger Nichelle Prince.
OL Reign: The return of head coach Laura Harvey has helped shift things in a more positive direction for the team over the last few weeks. Forward Sofia Huerta made her regular season Reign debut at outside back last week against the Portland Thorns, and Megan Rapinoe had another massive game with two goals, as the team defeated their rivals 2-1. Their attacking options are plenty, but the crowded field means players like Tziarra King and Bethany Balcer now on the sideline. Winners of four in their five matches, their midfield is their biggest strength heading into the game against Houston with Jess Fishlock, Rose Lavelle, and Dzsenifer Marozsán pulling the strings.
Viewing information
- Date: Wednesday, September 1
- Time: 8:00 p.m. ET
- Location: BBVA Stadium -- Houston, Texas
- TV: CBS Sports Network
Game prediction
OL Reign continue their impressive form against a Houston Dash team that is still figuring things out late in the season. Pick: OL Reign 1, Houston Dash 0
