The Houston Dash won the 2020 NWSL Challenge Cup on Sunday, beating the Chicago Red Stars, 2-0, in the final. It is the first NWSL trophy in Houston history, and the Dash scored Sophie Schmidt’s winning goal on an early penalty kick. The result concludes the Challenge Cup, a month-long eight-team tournament in Utah.
Dash was able to set the tone early when midfielder Kristie Mewis won a free kick in the box against Chicago defender Kayla Sharples. Schmidt, a Canadian international, stepped forward and was able to convert on goal, giving Dash the lead in the fifth minute. They never abandoned him, and Shea Groom added an insurance goal in the 91st minute on a breakaway.
Groom and Dash captain Rachel Daly finished the tournament with three goals, tied for most players. Daly, the tournament MVP, won the NWSL Challenge Cup Golden Boot with three goals and two assists.
The Red Stars had shooting opportunities at all times, but could never find an equalizer. It was the second consecutive loss in a final for the Red Stars, who fell to the North Carolina Courage in last year’s championship game.
Dash 2, Red Stars 0 (Final)
AshDash: Sophie Schmidt – 5 ‘(PK)
AshDash: Shea Groom – 90 + 1 ‘
Takeaway
Houston Dash: Second-year head coach James Clarkson emphasized the importance of a culture change for his team during the offseason. He went out and targeted players to help both his defensive and superior line with players like Katie Naughton and Shea Groom. The team also chose co-captains on Jane Campbell and Rachel Daly, who had significant moments in the final. Daly earned the tournament MVP and Golden Boot honors.
The Dash comes home with the first club title for the franchise. They are also returning to Houston as a transformed team. Throughout their tournament, their messages were the same from players and coaches: They were a club with a new identity and they were in Utah to compete. They accomplished everything they set out to accomplish and more as they notified the league.
Chicago Red Stars: The Red Stars’ unique journey to the cup final ended in defeat. To kick off the Challenge Cup, the coaching staff drafted the preliminary round, with head coach Rory Dames emphasizing the importance of using the games to give some of the team’s newest talent-playing experience. Throughout the group phase, the top line of the team fought in front of the goal, while the defense gave outstanding performances.
Along the way, the team suffered injuries that ended the tournament to several key starters and impact players. However, the team found itself in the final after a three-goal show in the semifinals. In post-game comments, Dames recognized her players for their performances, despite the unique circumstances that led to the final. Dames said he is confident about the group’s future.
