Angel City Football Club News

Angel City FC Heads Into NWSL Break With Loss To North Carolina Courage At Home

marketing@angelcity.com (Angel City) — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 03:00:00 GMT

LOS ANGELES (May 31, 2026) – Angel City Football Club (ACFC) fell 2-1 to the North Carolina Courage on Sunday afternoon at BMO Stadium, despite a second-half goal from Maiara Niehues and strong saves by goalkeeper Angelina Anderson.

After a scoreless opening half, North Carolina struck first in the 48th minute when forward Evelyn Ijeh found the back of the net to give the visitors a 1-0 advantage.

Angel City responded almost immediately. Defender Evelyn Shores helped spark the attack, setting up Niehues for the equalizer in the 51st minute as the midfielder calmly finished to make it 1-1.

The teams traded chances throughout the remainder of the second half before the Courage regained the lead in the 79th minute via midfielder Manaka Matsukubo.

“We wanted nothing more than to end with a home win,” ACFC captain Sarah Gorden said. “We need to go back to the drawing board and figure it out because we need to put our chances away and do a better job of keeping the ball out of our net.”

Anderson made two saves to keep Angel City within reach, while the defense worked to limit opportunities as the hosts pushed for a late equalizer.

“In all of these games, we do enough to win, and that's the frustrating part,” Head Coach Alex Straus said. “The structure and organization today were good. We created some big chances at the end, and we should have scored. Strategically, we were good today. We need to do more with the ball, and we need to ask ourselves why these things keep happening to us.”

ACFC nearly found that goal in the closing moments when forward Taylor Suarez saw her attempt denied on the goal line by Courage goalkeeper Kailen Sheridan, preserving North Carolina's one-goal lead.

“As we've said, soccer is about momentum,” Gorden said. “When you put the ball in the net early, it changes the momentum of the game. We would like to score earlier and play with the lead. Ultimately, it's up to all of us to be better on both ends of the field.”

Sunday's match marked Angel City's final contest of May. The club now enters the NWSL's June break before returning to league action Friday, July 3 at home against the Orlando Pride live on Prime.

Angel City FC Players Called Up For International Duty In June

marketing@angelcity.com (Angel City) — Fri, 29 May 2026 18:02:35 GMT

Ary Borges, Claire Emslie, Kennedy Fuller, Evelyn Shores, Taylor Suarez, and Gisele Thompson to represent their countries during the upcoming FIFA window.

Angel City FC to Host North Carolina in Final May Match

Karan Lodha for Angel City — Tue, 26 May 2026 21:30:00 GMT

Angel City Football Club (ACFC) will face the North Carolina Courage at 4 p.m. PT on Sunday at BMO Stadium. The match will be televised on Victory+.

Last Time Out: Houston Scores Late in ACFC Loss

Angel City FC converted on its first penalty kick attempt of the season but conceded to the Houston Dash in second-half stoppage time, losing, 2-1, at Shell Energy Stadium on Saturday, May 23.

Midfielder Maiara Niehues scored from the penalty spot in the 26th minute after midfielder Kennedy Fuller drew a foul from Houston defender Leah Klenke. Niehues’s goal brought the teams level at 1-1 after the Dash took an early lead, but Houston midfielder Maggie Graham found the back of the ACFC net in the waning moments of the match to give the Dash the victory.

The teams split the season series, with Angel City (4-5-1) winning the first matchup at BMO Stadium on March 27.

Next Up: Sanchez and the Courage

North Carolina (4-3-3) sits in seventh in the NWSL standings after two consecutive wins. The Courage survived a late comeback attempt by Racing Louisville FC to win, 2-1, at Lynn Family Stadium on Saturday, May 23.

Midfielder Ashley Sanchez tallied another goal in the triumph, pushing her up to second in the Golden Boot race with seven goals in 10 matches. Sanchez is also tied for fourth in the league in shots on target with 13.

Sanchez will have to overcome the ACFC defense and goalkeeper Angelina Anderson, who made five saves against Houston.

In the Spotlight: Emslie Back for Club and Country

Forward Claire Emslie was recently called up by the Scottish national team for its 2027 Women’s World Cup qualifying matches against Israel. Emslie made her return to the pitch for the first time as a new mom on May 9 against San Diego Wave FC, playing 12 minutes on the eve of Mother’s Day.

Emslie has been a staple of Angel City’s roster since its inaugural season in 2022. She has made 75 NWSL appearances and holds the club record for goals scored, with 16 across all competitions.

“I am so excited to get back out on the pitch and play in front of the fans again,” said Emslie in advance of her ACFC return. “The time away has made me appreciate being on pitch now. It is so fun. I get to kick a ball, enjoy being with my teammates, and play for something more. I love being a mom, and I am also proud of being a footballer. I hope my journey has shown that with the right support and determination, you can absolutely do both.”

This Week at BMO Stadium: Battle of the Clubs

This Sunday, Angel City will commemorate the Battle of the Clubs, celebrating youth soccer in Los Angeles. The match against North Carolina will feature a pre-game performance by club house band Ritmo Del Sol as well as a halftime appearance by rising music artist Fordo.

Sunday’s contest will be ACFC’s sixth and final match of the month in advance of the June NWSL break.

Angel City FC Converts First Penalty of Season in Loss to Houston

Karan Lodha for Angel City — Sun, 24 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

HOUSTON, TX (May 23, 2026) - Angel City Football Club (ACFC) tallied its first penalty kick goal of the season but lost, 2-1, on a late score by the Houston Dash at Shell Energy Stadium on Saturday night.

Houston midfielder Maggie Graham netted the game-winner in the opening minute of second-half stoppage time, dribbling the ball into the ACFC penalty box and slotting it into the bottom-right corner.

Graham’s goal deprived Angel City of an opportunity to earn points for the third consecutive match in six days after a 2-1 home victory against the Kansas City Current and a goalless draw in Portland.

“Every game we play is pretty even, and most of the games, we have better numbers than the opponents,” said Head Coach Alex Straus, adding, “We need to fix those things, those behaviors, to keep the structure, to stay organized for 94 minutes and make the right decisions. That’s what’s keeping us from being a top team.”

ACFC earned a penalty shot in the 24th minute when Dash defender Leah Klenke pulled down midfielder Kennedy Fuller as she ran onto a chipped ball from defender Evelyn Shores. On the ensuing attempt, midfielder Maiara Niehues calmly buried the ball in the left side of the net to tie the match at 1-1.

It was Angel City’s first penalty kick attempt and conversion of the season.

“[Niehues] is great at it, and she's just so composed. That's exactly who you want taking a [penalty kick] for your team,” Fuller said. “And it was right after we conceded, and so we needed it, and she just put it in the back of the net.”

Goalkeeper Angelina Anderson was a significant factor for ACFC for the third consecutive match, registering five saves.

She made an outstanding stop in the 36th minute, sliding to her right and leaping to bat away a curling shot from Houston defender Avery Patterson that seemed destined for the top-left corner.

Anderson added a crucial save in the 74th minute, diving to her left to deny Dash midfielder Sophie Schmidt from inside the eighteen-yard box.

“It builds a lot of confidence for the team,” said Fuller of Anderson’s timely stops. “Because it is hard as a goalkeeper, and so when she makes a save, we’re able to kind of feed off that energy and want to go score goals.”

ACFC had the lion’s share of the opportunities in the first half, controlling 56 percent of the possession and outshooting Houston, 7-2.

Forward Kat Rader gave Houston the lead in the 17th minute. Dash attacker Kate Faase sent her a low pass from the right side of the penalty box, and Rader carried the ball over to the left post and chipped it over Anderson for the opening score.

Angel City will close out its six-match month with a home tilt against the North Carolina Courage at 4 p.m. PT on Sunday, May 31. The contest at BMO Stadium will be televised on Victory+.

Angel City FC Travels to Houston to Close Out Three-Match Week

Karan Lodha for Angel City — Fri, 22 May 2026 01:00:00 GMT

Angel City Football Club (ACFC) will play in its third match in seven days when it travels to Houston to face the Dash at Shell Energy Stadium at 5:45 p.m. PT on Saturday. The match will be televised on ION.

Last Time Out: Thompson, Fuller Outpower the Current

Angel City FC got back in the win column on Wednesday evening, defeating the Kansas City Current, 2-1, at BMO Stadium. The victory was the first for ACFC (4-4-1) since it started the season with a club-record 3-0-0 start.

Defender Gisele Thompson drove the offense with a goal and an assist, scoring in the ninth minute to give Angel City the 1-0 lead and then setting up midfielder Kennedy Fuller’s game-winning tally in the 72nd minute.

Goalkeeper Angelina Anderson looked sharp for the second straight match. The netminder made a crucial save to preserve a 1-1 tie in the 54th minute before stopping a penalty by Kansas City midfielder Lo’eau LaBonta in the 57th minute.

Next Up: Rader and the Dash

ACFC travels to Texas to face Houston (3-5-2) for the second time this season after winning the squads’ first contest in late March. Forwards Sveindís Jónsdóttir and Riley Tiernan scored in the match at BMO Stadium to give Angel City a 2-1 triumph.

The Dash also played on Wednesday night, drawing with San Diego Wave FC, 2-2, at home. Forward Kat Rader scored for Houston and is up to three goals this season.

Prior to the match against the Wave, the Dash had only scored one total goal in five matches. With Anderson in fine form, Rader and Houston could struggle to pierce the Angel City defense.

ACFC has historically dominated the Dash in their matches, holding a 4-1-4 edge since 2022.

In the Spotlight: Fuller Stars as Substitute

Fuller made the most of her limited minutes on Wednesday, coming on as a substitute in the 69th minute before scoring just moments later. The midfielder almost added to the lead with a shot that bounced off the top-left corner in the 80th minute.

“That’s what we talk about every day – the players that start the game need to do their job, and then you have quality coming into the game [to] finish the games off,” said Head Coach Alex Straus after the match, adding, “And today Kennedy was a finisher, and she came on and won us the game.”

Fuller has started five matches this season, but she is now making the most of her recent role as a reserve player. The 19-year-old continues to show growth and maturity in her third season with ACFC.

“My biggest job this week and last week… [has] just been putting in time and training and really focusing on what [the coaches] need from me,” Fuller said after the match. “And then whenever I do get my chance, just really work hard and do what they’re asking, because each game is going to be different.”

Angel City FC Defeats Kansas City in Thrilling Midweek Matchup

Karan Lodha for Angel City — Thu, 21 May 2026 05:00:00 GMT

LOS ANGELES (May 20, 2026) - Propelled by a goal and an assist from defender Gisele Thompson and a saved penalty by goalkeeper Angelina Anderson, Angel City Football Club (ACFC) defeated the Kansas City Current, 2-1, Wednesday evening at BMO Stadium.

Midfielder Kennedy Fuller came on as a substitute in the 69th minute and scored the game-winning goal just moments later, giving ACFC its first win since the club started the season 3-0-0.

“That’s what we talk about every day - the players that start the game need to do their job, and then you have quality coming into the game [to] finish the games off,” said Head Coach Alex Straus, adding, “And today Kennedy was a finisher, and she came on and won us the game.”

Fuller launched a rocket to give Angel City the 2-1 lead in the 72nd minute, trapping a header from Thompson and volleying the ball past Current goalkeeper Lorena and into the left side of the net.

The midfielder almost added to ACFC’s lead in the 80th minute, bouncing a curling shot off the top left corner of the Kansas City goal.

“That's why we put her on, because we know that Kennedy has the quality and creativity to finish the games off,” Straus said, adding, “And she almost got an even better one in the top corner after.”

Anderson kept Angel City in the match during a torrid stretch from Kansas City to open the second half.

The Current was awarded a penalty when midfielder Ally Sentnor went down in the box in the 55th minute. On the ensuing penalty kick, Kansas City midfielder Lo’eau LaBonta fired a low shot to Anderson’s left. But the ACFC goalkeeper confidently dove and smothered the ball, preserving the 1-1 tie in the 57th minute.

Anderson also made a crucial save in the 54th minute, kicking out her left foot to stop midfielder Croix Bethune from very close range.

“For [Anderson] to save that [penalty kick] in such a big moment is so important,” Fuller said. “We've been on a losing streak, and so for her to just put her head down and make the save for the team, it pushed us. We had to score.”

Angel City controlled play for much of the first half and scored the opening goal, but the Current equalized just before halftime.

Thompson put ACFC ahead 1-0 in the ninth minute. She picked up a Kansas City giveaway and dribbled into the right side of the penalty box, and after being tackled initially by Current defender Kayla Sharples, recovered to power a low shot past an outstretched Lorena.

“The first goal is perfect,” Straus said. “We were patient in our build… That's what we expect from [Thompson].”

Midfielder Ally Sentnor chipped a shot from the left side of the box that deflected off the Angel City defense and into the net, tying the match at 1-1 in the 45th minute.

Forward Casey Phair made her first NWSL start, playing 83 minutes and applying constant pressure on Lorena.

ACFC will play in its third match in seven days when it travels to Houston to face the Dash at Shell Energy Stadium at 5:45 p.m. Pacific Time on Saturday. The match will be televised on ION.

Angel City FC to Host Kansas City Current in Club's First Midweek Game of the Season

Karan Lodha for Angel City — Tue, 19 May 2026 00:45:34 GMT

Angel City Football Club (ACFC) will face the Kansas City Current on Wednesday at 7 p.m. Pacific Time at BMO Stadium. The match will be televised on Victory+.

Last Time Out: ACFC Splits Points with Thorns

Angel City FC held strong amidst an energetic crowd and earned a 0-0 draw against the Portland Thorns on Sunday afternoon at Providence Park. It was the first time that ACFC (3-4-1) split points with an opponent this season.

Goalkeeper Angelina Anderson secured her second shutout of the season. She made a match-saving play in the 50th minute, diving to deny Thorns forward Sophia Wilson from close range.

The result reflected a very even effort by both sides. Angel City and Portland split possession, tallied 11 shots each and were almost equal in expected goals (0.99 for ACFC versus 0.98 for the Thorns).

Next Up: Chawinga, Cooper and the Current

Kansas City (5-4-0) comes to BMO Stadium on a three-match winning streak after defeating the Houston Dash, 3-0, on May 15 at CPKC Stadium. Last year’s NWSL Shield winners appear to be back on the right track after losing three of their first four matches to open this season.

Powering the Current’s surge has been forward Temwa Chawinga, who has five goals in her last two appearances — including a hat trick against Chicago on May 10. The outburst has her climbing in the Golden Boot race, with the Malawian attacker up to third place behind Orlando’s Barbra Banda and North Carolina’s Ashley Sanchez.

Forward Michelle Cooper has been the main table setter for Chawinga, assisting on both of her goals against Houston. The Kansas City pair will be met by an Angel City defense that continues to be one of the stingiest in the NWSL, with just nine goals allowed in eight matches.

In the Spotlight: Lageyre Makes First NWSL Start

Midfielder Carina Lageyre made her first professional start on Sunday against Portland, playing 80 minutes. The 22-year-old created two chances and registered two shots, showcasing her attacking flair in a tough match on the road.

Lageyre signed a three-year contract with Angel City in the offseason after a successful career at Duke University. The midfielder has represented the United States at the U-15, U-17, and U-20 levels, and she competed at the 2022 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup.

This Week at BMO Stadium: After Hours at Level Up

Wednesday’s match will feature an After Hours Party at Level Up by Bandai Namco. The festivities will include a DJ, a photo booth, and a tarot reader.

The contest will be ACFC’s third of four home matches this month, with the North Carolina Courage coming to BMO Stadium on May 31.

Angel City FC Earns Draw Against Portland

Karan Lodha for Angel City — Mon, 18 May 2026 01:40:51 GMT

PORTLAND (May 17, 2026) - Angel City Football Club (ACFC) earned a gritty 0-0 draw Sunday afternoon at a raucous Providence Park, withstanding a late surge by the Portland Thorns to earn a point on the road.

ACFC warded off multiple threats by Portland in the closing minutes of the match, including several corners. Thorns midfielder Jessie Fleming drove a low shot that clanged off the left post in the fourth minute of stoppage time, but the Angel City defense cleared the ball before the Thorns could threaten again.

ACFC became the first team to take points off Portland at Providence Park this season, with the Thorns having won all three of their previous home matches.

“I'm proud of the players that we got away with a point in a very difficult away game,” Head Coach Alex Straus said. “At the same time, we can still do better, and that's what we are striving for.”

Goalkeeper Angelina Anderson secured her second shutout of the season. She made what may have been the play of the match in the 50th minute, diving to stop a low, one-timed shot from close range by Portland forward Sophia Wilson.

Anderson’s save preserved a scoreless tie early in the second half.

“I feel like I needed a big save like that, and I was just happy to be able to come up big in that moment,” Anderson said. “That's the position of goalkeeping, it's how can you impact the game in moments that you need to impact.”

The stalwart defensive effort by Angel City resulted in multiple opportunities on the offensive end, including seven corners.

Attacker Casey Phair had a scoring chance off of a long throw from midfielder Nealy Martin in the 69th minute. The ball was nodded on by multiple players before finding Phair, who forced a save from Portland goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold with a strong header at the left post.

ACFC’s first major threat of the second half came in the 55th minute, when rookie forward Taylor Suarez spun past two Thorns defenders before launching a shot with the outside of her right foot from the edge of the six-yard box. But Arnold blocked the ball away for a corner.

“We came here and we created enough to score a goal today,” Straus said, adding, “We saw that when we played [Portland] at home in L.A. a couple of weeks ago, and we saw it today, that these are two teams that are pretty even in performance.”

Angel City held strong against a potent Thorns attack in the opening half, deflecting several shots and limiting Portland’s players on set pieces.

Defender Sarah Gorden made a crucial block in the 20th minute, stepping in front of a shot by Thorns forward Reilyn Turner at the left corner of the six-yard box. Gorden also chased down Wilson when she appeared to be in on goal in the 30th minute.

“This last period has been the best I've seen of Sarah,” Straus said. “After she was on the bench a couple of games, she has grown a lot. She's taken the challenge, and she's taken another step.”

Midfielder Carina Lageyre made her first professional start, playing 79 minutes before being replaced by forward Claire Emslie.

“I was excited just to play and help the team any way I could,” Lageyre said, adding, “I felt ready, and I felt like the girls around me had full faith and trust in me as well.”

Forward Riley Tiernan was back in the Starting XI after coming on as a second-half substitute in the previous match. Martin made her 100th NWSL regular-season appearance.

ACFC will be back at BMO Stadium for its next match, hosting the Kansas City Current on Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. PT. The match will be televised on Victory+.

Angel City Football Club Kicks Off Its Global Game Tour for a Summer of Soccer Events Across Los Angeles

marketing@angelcity.com (Angel City) — Wed, 13 May 2026 21:57:20 GMT

ACFC to host watch parties, fan fests, clinics, and more from
June 11-July 19, introducing new fans across LA to ACFC and the global game

LOS ANGELES (May 13, 2026) – This summer, Angel City Football Club (ACFC) will activate in neighborhoods all across Los Angeles with more than 30 free events from June 11 through July 19, as part of a month-long celebration of soccer. The Global Game Tour will bring global soccer energy to Los Angeles neighborhoods, including Marina del Rey, West Hollywood, Pasadena, Boyle Heights, Thousand Oaks, Long Beach, South Los Angeles, the San Gabriel Valley, and more. Stops will include fan zones, neighborhood watch parties at local parks and bars, plus youth and community soccer activities for fans of all ages and experience levels.

Angel City FC Travels To Portland To Face League-Leading Thorns

Karan Lodha for Angel City — Wed, 13 May 2026 19:00:00 GMT

Angel City Football Club (ACFC) will face the Portland Thorns at Providence Park on Sunday, May 17, at 3 p.m. Pacific. The match will be televised on ESPN2.

Last Time Out: Wave Scores Late to Beat ACFC

In a closely fought battle between Southern California rivals, San Diego Wave FC topped Angel City FC, 2-1, at BMO Stadium on May 9.

Defender Emily Sams netted an equalizer in the 54th minute after San Diego scored in the opening minutes of the second half. But Wave defender Mimi Van Zanten’s tally in the 81st minute gave San Diego the win.

ACFC’s loss came in yet another match in which Angel City (3-4-0) generated more chances, with 1.49 expected goals to the Wave’s 0.77. Rookie forward Taylor Suarez led the club with two shots on target.

Next Up: Wilson, Moultrie and the Thorns

Portland (6-2-1) will welcome ACFC from the top of the NWSL standings, having won two of three matches since the clubs faced each other at BMO Stadium on April 26. The Thorns have played two more matches than Angel City, and Portland was most recently upset by Racing Louisville FC, 3-1, on May 8 at Lynn Family Stadium.

Thorns forward Sophia Wilson, who registered the game-winning goal in the last match against ACFC, scored her third of the year against Louisville. Meanwhile, Portland midfielder Olivia Moultrie is tied with San Diego’s Dudinha for first in the league with four assists.

Angel City will look to rev up its offense against the Thorns. ACFC continues to be a top-five team in the NWSL in goals scored, having tallied 12 in just seven games played.

In the Spotlight: Phair Earning More Minutes

Forward Casey Phair made her second appearance of the season for Angel City on May 9, coming on as a second-half substitute against the Wave. The South Korean attacker played 21 minutes as she continues to earn more minutes for the club.

Phair signed with ACFC in January 2023, at which time she became the youngest player under contract for Angel City. At just 18 years old, the forward has already shown several flashes of her potential. As a member of the South Korea Women’s National Team, Phair has earned 14 caps and recorded four goals. She also previously scored a hat trick for the South Korea U-17 Women’s National Team.

Phair is under contract with Angel City through 2028 and is a key piece of the young ACFC roster as it grows in experience under the guidance of Head Coach Alex Straus.

Angel City FC Loses Close Match To San Diego Wave FC

Karan Lodha for Angel City — Sun, 10 May 2026 05:00:00 GMT

LOS ANGELES, CA (May 9, 2026) - In a fiercely contested match between two Southern California rivals, San Diego Wave FC topped Angel City Football Club (ACFC), 2-1, Saturday evening at BMO Stadium.

The Wave netted the gamewinner in the 81st minute. Defender Mimi Van Zanten headed the ball in at the right post on a lofted cross from forward Dudinha.

Saturday’s match marked Angel City’s fifth consecutive contest that was decided by just one goal.

“It's a good reality check for us, and it's still early in the year,” ACFC midfielder Nealy Martin said. “We can choose to go one of two ways. And I'm really confident in this group and the culture we've built here, and I think that we’ll stick together and tough it out.”

Defender Emily Sams registered an equalizer just minutes after San Diego broke the scoreless tie. Poaching a Wave clearance from an ACFC corner, defender Sarah Gorden chipped a high cross to the left post. Sams slid onto the bouncing ball and drove it past San Diego goalkeeper DiDi Haračić to level the match at 1-1 in the 54th minute. The assist marked the first of Gorden’s professional career.

Dudinha tallied the opening goal in the 49th minute. The Brazilian attacker made a run from the left side of the eighteen-yard box and fired a shot that was deflected into the Angel City net, giving the Wave the 1-0 lead.

“The [equalizing] goal was a bright spot,” Gorden said, adding, “But it's hard not to look past the disappointment of the result overall.”

Both teams had strong opportunities to score in the opening 45 minutes.

Forward Taylor Suarez generated one of Angel City’s best chances of the first half in the 38th minute, winning the ball outside of the box before launching an uncontested shot from near the penalty spot. But Haračić was able to block the ball away for a corner.

Gorden made a key play in the ACFC penalty box in the 23rd minute, blocking a shot from close range by Dudinha. The Brazilian attacker won the ball near midfield and appeared to be in on goal after a long run before Gorden closed the gap.

Sams also made a timely tackle against Dudinha in the 12th minute, keeping the potent Wave offense at bay early in the match.

“We were very, very happy with our first half,” Head Coach Alex Straus said, adding, “We are getting into where we believe we can be — back in that rhythm.”

Forward Claire Emslie made her return to the field, suiting up for the first time since becoming a mother. Emslie welcomed her son, Jamie, in December 2025.

Attacker Jun Endo made her first start of the season under a minutes restriction, marking continued progress in her recovery from injury. She played the entire first half before being replaced by forward Prisca Chilufya.

San Diego was led on the sidelines by former ACFC Head Coach Becki Tweed. She stepped in for Wave Head Coach Jonas Eidevall, who was serving a one-game suspension for a red card.

ACFC will play in its first road game since early April next weekend, when the club will travel to Oregon to face Portland Thorns FC. The match is on Sunday, May 17, at 3 p.m. and will be televised on ESPN2.

Angel City Football Club Forward Claire Emslie Available for Selection After Maternity Leave

marketing@angelcity.com (Angel City) — Fri, 08 May 2026 19:59:59 GMT

Angel City Football Club (ACFC) forward Claire Emslie will return to the active roster this Saturday following maternity leave after welcoming her son, Jamie, in December 2025.

Angel City Football Club to Face SoCal Rival San Diego Wave FC

Karan Lodha for Angel City — Thu, 07 May 2026 18:32:45 GMT

Angel City Football Club (ACFC) will face Southern California rival San Diego Wave FC at BMO Stadium on Saturday at 5:45 p.m. The match will be televised on ION.

Last Time Out: Utah Outlasts ACFC

Angel City FC fought furiously in the second half despite being a player down, but ultimately lost, 1-0, to Utah Royals FC. ACFC (3-3-0) outshot Utah, 9-5, but was shut out for the first time this season.

Midfielder Ary Borges returned to the starting lineup and was named Player of the Match. Forward Taylor Suarez made her second consecutive start and played her first full game as a professional.

“Taylor did an amazing job,” Head Coach Alex Straus said. “[She] was, if not the best, maybe one of our best players today, with the dynamics and the movement.”

Next Up: Macario, Haračić and San Diego

True to its name, San Diego (5-3-0) made waves when it announced the signing of forward Catarina Macario in March. The U.S. Women’s National Team attacker had spent the previous three seasons with Chelsea FC Women before signing with her hometown club. Macario is now part of a talented offensive lineup that also features midfielder Lia Godfrey, who is tied for third in the NWSL with four goals scored.

Returning to face her former team will be goalkeeper DiDi Haračić. The Bosnian netminder was part of ACFC’s inaugural roster and spent 2022 to 2024 in Los Angeles before moving south to San Diego.

Additionally, former Angel City Head Coach Becki Tweed is expected to take on the lead managing duties for the Wave on Saturday because San Diego Head Coach Jonas Eidevall will be serving a suspension for a red card he received in the Wave’s prior match.

ACFC has faced San Diego eight times in four seasons and holds a 3-2-3 record overall.

In the Spotlight: Martin Makes Her Mark in the Midfield

Midfielder Nealy Martin has been a notable presence for ACFC in her first full season for the club. Martin has started every single match, playing a key role in Angel City's consistent dominance of possession against opponents.

Martin was acquired in a trade with Gotham FC last September and subsequently signed an extension through the end of the 2027 season. She also holds the distinct honor of having been the first field player in NWSL history to serve as an emergency goalkeeper in a playoff match, stepping in during stoppage time of the 2023 NWSL Championship and helping Gotham secure a 2–1 victory.

This Week at BMO Stadium: Rivalry Night

Angel City fans will celebrate Rivalry Night this Saturday, asking fans to “blackout” BMO Stadium as the club faces its Southern California rival. ACFC’s Fan Fest will start at 2 p.m., and there will be a halftime performance by Ritmo Del Sol.

The first 5,000 fans to enter the gates will also have the opportunity to collect the second pin in the five-set series celebrating ACFC’s historic fifth season. Pin #2, featuring the text “Heart, Hustle, Hunger,” captures the spirit that defines both the club and the city of Los Angeles. The pin is exclusively available at Saturday’s match.

Angel City Football Club and Victory+ Announce Regional Broadcast Partnership

marketing@angelcity.com (Angel City) — Wed, 06 May 2026 16:00:00 GMT

LOS ANGELES (May 6, 2026) – Angel City Football Club (ACFC) and Victory+ today announced a new regional broadcast partnership that will bring live match coverage and exclusive club content to fans across the greater Los Angeles area via Victory+, a free, fan-first sports streaming platform.

Angel City FC Falls Short In A 1-0 Loss To Utah Royals FC

Karan Lodha for Angel City — Sun, 03 May 2026 03:00:00 GMT

LOS ANGELES, CA (May 2, 2026) - In a tension-filled match, Angel City FC (ACFC) was edged by Utah Royals FC, 1-0, Saturday evening at BMO Stadium.

Utah forward Cloé Lacasse scored the only goal of the match in the 32nd minute, heading in a cross from attacker Paige Cronin. Angel City outshot the Royals, 9-5, but was shut out for the first time this season.

ACFC played the second half with just 10 players after midfielder Maiara Niehues was shown a red card in the closing moments of the first half as she went to recover a ball for a free kick. The call was made by referee Lauren Aldrich shortly after Lacasse was given a yellow card for a foul on defender Gisele Thompson.

“I'm really proud of the second half,” said Head Coach Alex Straus, adding, “[The team] went for it 100 percent in the second half with one player less.”

ACFC had multiple opportunities to equalize in the second half despite being a player down.

Forward Sveindís Jónsdóttir had a strong scoring chance in the 77th minute when fellow forward Taylor Suarez curled a low pass to her as the Icelandic attacker ran into the penalty box. But Jónsdóttir’s low shot was blocked away by Utah goalkeeper Mandy McGlynn.

Moments later, Suarez had an attempt of her own from the left side of the box. Suarez’s shot seemed destined for the top-left corner before ultimately finding the outside netting.

“If we come out in the first half like we did in the second half, I think we win that game,” ACFC defender Emily Sams said. “I think that's something that we can definitely learn from and take forward, that we don't have to wait until we're down a player [or] down a goal to come out with that kind of intensity.”

Two possible penalty kicks that could have been awarded to Angel City were the subject of lengthy VAR reviews in the second half.

Angel City was initially awarded a penalty kick in the 70th minute when Utah defender Kate Del Fava tackled forward Priscya Chilufya at the edge of the box. However, after a video review, Aldrich reversed the call.

Although ACFC controlled the run of play in the first half with 58 percent of the possession, the Royals scored the lone goal.

Utah almost conceded an own goal in the 36th minute, when Royals defender Janni Thomsen deflected an ACFC cross into the penalty box back towards her own net. But McGlynn was able to push the ball away for a corner and preserve the 1-0 margin.

Goalkeeper Angelina Anderson asserted her presence in the 27th minute, diving at a full stretch and punching away a rising shot from Utah forward Mina Tanka.

Midfielder Ary Borges returned to the starting lineup and was named Player of the Match. Suarez made her second consecutive start and played her first full match as a professional.

“Taylor did an amazing job,” Straus said. [She] was, if not the best, maybe one of our best players today, with the dynamics and the movement.”

Angel City Football Club Welcomes New Sporting Staff

marketing@angelcity.com (Angel City) — Fri, 01 May 2026 15:58:00 GMT

Assistant Coach Leif Gunnar Smerud and Soccer Operations Manager Larissa Campelo join ACFC

Angel City FC To Host Utah Royals In Matchup Of Top-Five Teams

Karan Lodha for Angel City — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 21:00:00 GMT

Angel City Football Club (ACFC) will host the Utah Royals at BMO Stadium on Saturday, May 2, at 5:45 p.m. The match will be televised on ION.

Last Time Out: Portland Outlasts ACFC in Stoppage-Time Thriller

Savy King Announced As 2026 Lauren Holiday Impact Award Nominee By NWSL

marketing@angelcity.com (Angel City) — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Angel City Football Club and the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) today announced defender Savy King as its nominee for the 2026 Lauren Holiday Impact Award, presented by Nationwide, recognizing an NWSL player for outstanding service and character off the pitch and in the community. King will be representing her own non-profit organization, Savy King of Hearts. All 16 nominees from across the NWSL were announced by the league today.

Angel City FC Falls To Portland Thorns In Stoppage-Time Thriller

Karan Lodha for Angel City — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 02:00:00 GMT

LOS ANGELES (April 26, 2026) - In the team’s first match after the international break, Angel City Football Club (ACFC) scored in the closing minutes but lost to Portland Thorns FC, 2-1, Sunday afternoon at BMO Stadium.

Angel City FC To Host Portland Thorns In First Match After International Break

Karan Lodha for Angel City — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 20:00:00 GMT

Angel City Football Club (ACFC) will face Portland Thorns FC on Sunday, April 26, at 3 p.m. Pacific at BMO Stadium. The match will be televised on ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes.

Last Time Out: Pride Outlasts Angel City, 2-1

Angel City FC (3-1-0) scored a late goal to equalize, but ultimately fell to the Orlando Pride, 2-1, on April 3 at Inter&Co Stadium. The loss was ACFC’s first of the season after the club got off to a record-setting start.

Defender Gisele Thompson scored her second goal of the season for Angel City in stoppage time after Orlando went ahead, 1-0, in the 84th minute. But Pride midfielder Haley McCutcheon tallied her second score of the match just six minutes later, allowing Orlando to escape with the win at home.

Despite the loss, ACFC continued its trend of dominating possession, holding on to the ball for over 63 percent of the match. Captain and defender Sarah Gorden was named Player of the Match after her incredible defensive effort, shutting down NWSL shots leader Barbra Banda and leading Angel City with 65 passes completed.

Next Up: Moultrie, Turner and the Portland Thorns

Portland (3-1-1) comes to town after the international break in second place in the NWSL standings (with a match in hand). The Thorns drew against North Carolina in their last match, but have already defeated Kansas City, Seattle and Washington this season.

Midfielder Olivia Moultrie and forward Reilyn Turner have been driving the Portland offense, leading the team with three goals each. Both players made their marks on the scoresheet against the Courage on April 4 and will draw the attention of the Angel City defense this Sunday.

Also returning to BMO Stadium this Sunday will be defender M.A. Vignola, who was on the inaugural ACFC squad. She was traded to the Thorns in late 2025 as part of the transaction that brought midfielder Hina Sugita to Angel City. Vignola will have her hands full as she faces an ACFC offense that is leading the NWSL in goals scored.

Angel City has played Portland eight times in four seasons, with a 1-3-4 record overall.

In the Spotlight: Sams Off to Solid Start

One of Angel City’s key additions this offseason was defender Emily Sams. The former Orlando Pride backliner has stepped seamlessly into the ACFC lineup, starting every match as a central defender and even wearing the captain’s armband on occasion.

Sams has been an anchoring presence for Angel City. The 2024 NWSL Defender of the Year has often been called on to neutralize the opposing team’s top threat. She has also been a crucial part of Head Coach Alex Straus’s new offensive approach, leading the team in passes completed in two of ACFC’s four matches.

Sams was recently called up to the U.S. Women’s National Team camp and now returns to BMO Stadium to continue her solid start to the season.

This Week at BMO Stadium: Kids Day!

Angel City FC will celebrate Kids Day this Sunday at BMO Stadium. There will be a pre-game performance by Bob Baker Marionette Theater, a spirit station with temporary tattoos, and a height chart photo opportunity featuring a cutout of goalkeeper Angelina Anderson. The first 5,000 fans to enter the gates will receive a complimentary coloring book and crayons, sponsored by Sprouts.

Kids Day will feature a full youth takeover, including a young fan performing the national anthem, a mother-daughter duo leading the ceremonial “three clap” and a halftime baby race taking place at center pitch.

ACFC and Easterseals Southern California Team Up To Redefine Matchday Accessibility and Disability Inclusion For All Fans

marketing@angelcity.com (Angel City) — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Easterseals Southern California (ESSC), which assists more than 29,000 people with disabilities and their families throughout Southern California, has been named the Official Accessibility & Inclusion Partner of Angel City Football Club (ACFC). Through this multi-year partnership, Easterseals and Angel City will collaborate to ensure every fan can fully participate in the matchday experience and to set a new standard for inclusive sports environments.

Ten Angel City FC Players Called Up To International Duty

marketing@angelcity.com (Angel City) — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 18:00:00 GMT

LOS ANGELES (April 7, 2026) - Nine players from Angel City Football Club (ACFC) have received international call-ups for the April 7-18 international window, representing their respective senior and youth national teams.

Angel City FC Loses First Match Of Season To Orlando Pride

Karan Lodha for Angel City — Sat, 04 Apr 2026 03:30:00 GMT

Angel City Football Club (ACFC) tied the match late but ultimately lost to the Orlando Pride, 2-1, at Inter&Co Stadium on Friday night.

Defender Gisele Thompson scored her second goal of the season for ACFC (3-1-0), but Orlando midfielder Haley McCutcheon’s brace ultimately proved decisive in the closing minutes of the match.

“This is a difficult result for us to allow them to score in 90-plus, because we do feel like that is a mentality thing, which is what we've been working on,” said ACFC captain and defender Sarah Gorden. “So it is really disappointing.”

McCutcheon scored the game-winning goal in the eighth minute of second-half stoppage time. ACFC goalkeeper Angelina Anderson made an initial save on a Pride corner. But McCutcheon found the loose ball in a crowd and touched it into the Angel City net for the late 2-1 lead.

Thompson tied the match at 1-1 in the second minute of stoppage time. Defender Evelyn Shores took a free kick from the right side that was initially blocked by Orlando. But the ball popped out to Thompson at the edge of the penalty box, where she scorched a shot off the underside of the crossbar, leaving the shocked Pride goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse staring helplessly as the ball crossed the line.

“[I’m] really proud of the team for coming back in Orlando. This is a hard place to play,” Gorden. “So actually, to be able to come back into this game is a huge thing and a really important thing.”

Orlando scored the opening goal in the 84th minute. Striker Barbra Banda dribbled into the left side of the penalty box and sent a low cross that bounced between several Angel City defenders. As Anderson was involved in a collision, McCutcheon was able to tap the loose ball into the net at the near post.

Both of McCutcheon’s goals were subject to lengthy VAR reviews for potential offsides, but each score was ultimately upheld.

“Today, we could have gone away from here with a very, very good point and played an almost perfect away game,” ACFC Head Coach Alex Straus said. “But we threw it away in the end. And that's unacceptable for us as a team and as a unit.”

The Angel City defense withstood several waves of pressure from Orlando in the first half. Anderson and Gorden made multiple clutch plays to keep Banda and the Pride off the scoreboard.

Anderson made an important save on a Pride corner in the 30th minute. The netminder fought away Orlando defender Rafaelle’s header at the far post, keeping the game scoreless.

Anderson also made a critical save in the 10th minute. Banda broke into the penalty box slightly ahead of the Angel City defense. But the trailing Gorden recovered and gave Banda just enough trouble, allowing Anderson to get into position to make the diving stop.

“Sarah is probably one of the fastest and strongest defenders in the league,” Straus said, adding, “I don't see anybody who has controlled [Banda] in a way that Sarah did today. So I'm very, very happy with Sarah's performance defensively against Banda.”

Defender Emily Sams started in her first match against her former team. Orlando drafted Sams in 2023, and she played three seasons for the Pride. Forward Prisca Chilufya, who came on as a late substitute for Angel City, also made 16 appearances for Orlando in 2025.

Sams and Thompson will next report for duty to the United States Women’s National Team camp. Niehues (Brazil), midfielder Ary Borges (Brazil), forward Casey Phair (South Korea), forward Riley Tiernan (U.S. Under-23), defender Evelyn Shores (U.S. Under-23), and midfielder Kennedy Fuller (U.S. Under-20) have also been called up.

Angel City will resume play after the international break on Sunday, April 26, when the club will face Portland Thorns FC at BMO Stadium at 3 P.M. Pacific. The match will be televised on ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes.

Angel City Launches “ACFC Player Futures,” With Founding Captain Ali Riley Leading The Platform's First Chapter

marketing@angelcity.com (Angel City) — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

LOS ANGELES (March 24, 2026) – Angel City Football Club (ACFC) today announced the launch of “ACFC Player Futures,” a professional development program within the ACFC business organization that helps retired players gain real-world experience in marketing, partnerships, community impact, and operations of a professional women’s football club.

ACFC’s first-ever captain, Ali Riley, who retired at the end of the 2025 NWSL Season, helped club leadership shape the program and will participate as its first ACFC Players Futures Commercial and Creative Partner, marking the next chapter in her professional journey.

More than a traditional ambassador role, ACFC Player Futures act as active contributors to the club’s brand, revenue, and long-term business growth, receiving mentorship and guidance and ensuring that the leadership they forged on the pitch continues to shape the club off it.

“I’ve always believed that players should have a voice in shaping the future of the clubs they represent,” said Riley. “Angel City gave me the platform to lead on the field. This next chapter is about building from a different vantage point, contributing to the club's commercial growth, storytelling, and long-term vision, which I care deeply about. If we want women’s football to continue evolving, we need pathways that allow players to step into leadership beyond the pitch. I’m proud that Angel City is creating that blueprint.”

“Angel City was founded to reimagine what a sports organization can be, not just on the pitch, but in the way it empowers our fans, community, players, and staff,” said Willow Bay, Owner, ACFC. “As our first-ever captain, Ali helped set the tone and drive for the club’s football culture, standards, and global identity from day one, so it’s fitting that she’s helping us launch and build ACFC Player Futures as we continue to evolve, while also gaining real exposure to and experience from some of the best commercial and business minds in sports.”

In her role as Commercial and Creative Partner, Riley will work alongside the club’s marketing and partnerships team on brand strategy, partnership innovation, and alumni platform development, bringing the insight of a founding player to the club’s commercial and cultural initiatives. Her work will focus on strengthening the connection between Angel City’s on-field identity and its broader ambitions as one of the most progressive organizations in global sport. She will also collaborate on the vision, programming, and hosting of Angel City’s Alumni Weekend on August 23 at BMO Stadium.

Riley’s extraordinary pro soccer career has spanned nearly two decades, five World Cups, and four Olympic Games. She earned her first cap with the New Zealand Women’s National Team in 2007 and went on to appear 163 times for the senior national team, the second most in history. Her club career saw her play around the world for top-flight clubs, including FC Rosengård (2012-2018), Chelsea FC Women (2018-2019), Bayern Munich (2019-2020). Domestically, she had successful stints in with FC Gold Pride (2010), Western New York Flash (2011), and Orlando Pride of the NWSL (2020-2021) and finally she returned home to LA with Angel City in 2022.

Beyond her work with Angel City, Riley continues to expand her impact across sport and media. She recently announced her latest media endeavor as the co-host of her new podcast in partnership with Just Women’s Sports “Time Wasting” alongside Kelley O’Hara. She recently became a founding investor and owner at LOVB San Francisco, serves as a studio soccer analyst, and is building a growing presence in sports storytelling, reflecting her broader commitment to shaping the future of the game both on and off the field.

Angel City FC Earns Multiple Awards In The Month Of March

marketing@angelcity.com (Angel City) — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Angel City FC Forward Sveindís Jónsdóttir Named Player of the Month and Alex Straus Wins Coach of the Month

Angel City Football Club and Tampon Tribe Announce Menstrual Care Partnership

marketing@angelcity.com (Angel City) — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Angel City Football Club announced a new partnership with Tampon Tribe, a woman-founded provider of certified organic cotton plastic-free menstrual products, as the club’s Non-Exclusive Menstrual Products Partner and a Team Partner. The relationship is designed to support player and fan wellbeing, expand ACFC’s community impact, and introduce Tampon Tribe to one of the most engaged fan communities in sport.

Under the agreement, Tampon Tribe receives Team Partner and Proud Partner designations with non-exclusive rights in the menstrual care category. The partnership includes a broad package of benefits across community impact, performance center integration, game-day presence, on-site activations, and hospitality, connecting Tampon Tribe’s sustainability-focused brand with ACFC’s equity- and impact-driven model.

Through ACFC’s 10 percent community impact model, 10 percent of net proceeds from the partnership will support Girls Play LA GPLA, a City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks program that offers low and no-cost recreational sports at more than 100 sites across the city. This investment will help expand access to sport for girls and gender expansive youth and create co-branded activation moments at GPLA culmination events.

As part of the partnership, Tampon Tribe will:

Angel City FC Travels To Orlando As Final Undefeated Team In NWSL

Karan Lodha for Angel City — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Angel City Football Club (ACFC) will face the Orlando Pride at 5 p.m. Pacific Friday at Inter&Co Stadium in Orlando. The game will be televised on Prime Video.

Last Time Out: ACFC Comes Back Against Dash to Remain Atop League Table

Last Friday, Angel City beat the Houston Dash, 2-1, at BMO Stadium in a matchup of the last two undefeated teams in the league. With the victory, ACFC won three consecutive matches for the first time in club history and became just the eighth-ever NWSL team to start a season 3-0-0.

Forwards Riley Tiernan and Sveindís Jónsdóttir scored within the first five minutes of the second half to reverse Houston’s one-goal lead. Tiernan’s fourth career game-winner gave her the Angel City record for match-deciders — a particularly impressive tally given the young attacker is still in the early part of her second professional season.

Goalkeeper Angelina Anderson continued her strong play in net for ACFC. Anderson made a goal-saving punch on Dash forward Kiki Van Zanten’s attempt in the 51st minute, preserving Angel City’s lead and second-half momentum. The netminder is tied for second in the NWSL with a 0.67 goals-against average.

Next Up: Banda and the Pride

The Orlando Pride will host ACFC from an unfamiliar place: the middle of the league standings. The 2024 NWSL Champions have opened the season with just one win in four matches (1-1-2) and are in a three-way tie for seventh place with 2025 title-winners Gotham FC and expansion team Denver Summit FC.

Orlando and Gotham played to a 0-0 draw on Sunday night. Pride forward Barbra Banda did not score in Harrison, N.J., but it was the first time all season that she was held goalless. The Zambian attacker is tied with Jónsdóttir and two others with a league-leading three goals, and Banda promises to be a threat playing in her home stadium. Orlando forward Jacquie Ovalle is another name to watch, having registered a goal and an assist in the Pride’s 3-0 victory against Chicago.

Orlando goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse has kept two clean sheets and is likely to have her hands full with the Angel City offense. The ACFC attack is leading the NWSL with nine goals scored in three games and a +7 goal difference.

In the Spotlight: Suarez Earning More Minutes

Angel City forward Taylor Suarez has already been a factor early in her first professional season. The 20-year-old attacker came on for midfielder Nealy Martin in the 73rd minute against Houston and showcased solid decision-making as the team held on for the 2-1 win.

“She made an impact [in] the last 10 minutes of the game,” Head Coach Alex Straus said of Suarez after the match, adding, “She’s very skillful, very technical, very good between the lines.”

Suarez joined ACFC in the offseason after two years with Florida State. During her time with the Seminoles, Suarez was a 2025 NCAA Champion and a 2024 ACC Champion. She started 26 times in 36 appearances and registered eight goals and 14 assists.

The forward from Charlotte, N.C., has represented the United States across multiple levels and was a member of the U-17 All-American Team in 2022. Suarez is no stranger to individual accolades, having been recognized as a two-time Gatorade North Carolina Player of the Year, two-time North Carolina Soccer Coaches Association State Player of the Year, and two-time United Soccer Coaches High School State Player of the Year.

Angel City FC Tops Houston Dash For Historic Third Consecutive Victory To Open Season

Karan Lodha for Angel City — Sat, 28 Mar 2026 05:20:46 GMT

LOS ANGELES, CA (March 27, 2026) - In a matchup of two undefeated teams, Angel City Football Club (ACFC) vanquished the Houston Dash, 2-1, Friday evening at BMO Stadium.

With the win, ACFC remained atop the league table, continuing the club’s best-ever start and becoming just the eighth team in NWSL history to open a season with a 3-0-0 record.

“There is no ceiling for this team,” Head Coach Alex Straus said. “We can be the best team in the world — but we will not be there tomorrow.”

Angel City scored twice in the opening minutes of the second half to take a 2-1 lead.

Forward Sveindís Jónsdóttir — the reigning NWSL Player of the Week — notched the equalizer in the 47th minute. Jónsdóttir’s long throw-in led to a header by midfielder Kennedy Fuller, which deflected off the crossbar. The ball bounced out to the edge of the penalty box, where the waiting Jónsdóttir fired a rocket through the Dash defense into the top-left corner of the Houston goal.

ACFC struck again in the 49th minute. Dash goalkeeper Jane Campbell made an initial save when Angel City midfielder Maiara Niehues headed defender Gisele Thompson’s lofted cross on goal. But forward Riley Tiernan was waiting at the right post and pounced on the loose ball, putting ACFC ahead, 2-1.

The score was Tiernan’s fourth game-winning goal for Angel City — setting a club record early in her second NWSL season.

“Sveindís putting the ball in the net in the first [few minutes] of the second half really helped us to get some confidence and continue to play,” Tiernan said.

Goalkeeper Angelina Anderson made a spectacular save in the 51st minute. She firmly punched Houston forward Kiki Van Zanten’s high shot over the crossbar, preserving Angel City’s one-goal lead.

Houston kept ACFC’s potent offense at bay in the first half. Although Angel City held 57% of the possession, the Dash tallied the only goal, scoring in the 10th minute. Forward Makenzy Robbe headed a cross from the right side back towards the near post, where midfielder Maggie Graham was able to nod the ball into the ACFC net.

It was the first time all season that Angel City had trailed in a game. But Houston’s lead would not last.

“It’s all about how you respond, and there are two halves to a game,” Tiernan said. “We might not have necessarily won the first half, but that doesn’t matter – we have to put that behind us, and a one-nil lead is dangerous to have. So I think knowing that one goal [would get] us back in the game was the sliver of hope that we needed.”

Rookie forward Taylor Suarez saw significant action for ACFC, coming on for midfielder Nealy Martin in the 73rd minute. She took a shot from just outside the penalty box in the 78th minute, but her attempt was deflected on its way to Campbell.

“She made an impact [in] the last 10 minutes of the game,” Straus said of Suarez, adding, “She’s very skillful, very technical, very good between the lines.”

Angel City will next travel to Florida to face the Orlando Pride at 5 p.m. Pacific on Friday, April 3, at Inter&Co Stadium. The game will be televised on Prime Video.

Angel City FC To Host Houston Dash In Matchup Of Undefeated Teams

Karan Lodha for Angel City — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 17:30:00 GMT

Angel City Football Club (ACFC) will face the Houston Dash on Friday, March 27, at 7 p.m. Pacific at BMO Stadium. The match will be televised on Prime Video.

Last Time Out: Jónsdóttir Leads Offensive Outburst Against Bay FC

The Angel City FC attack continued to hum in a 3-1 victory against Bay FC last Saturday at PayPal Park in San Jose, Calif. ACFC outshot the home team, 15-13, and also generated more set pieces, including 12 corners taken.

Forward Sveindís Jónsdóttir scored a brace and assisted on defender Gisele Thompson’s goal in an all-around compelling match. Jónsdóttir frequently found her way past the Bay FC back line and took advantage of multiple chances on the counter-attack. She was named NWSL Player of the Week for her performance.

Captain Sarah Gorden set the Angel City record for games played with her 73rd appearance. Gorden came on for fellow defender Savy King, who started and played over 80 minutes in her first appearance against her former team.

Next Up: Campbell and the Houston Dash

The Houston Dash (2-0-0) are coming to Los Angeles fresh off a 3-0 victory against expansion squad Boston Legacy FC. Forward Kiki Van Zanten scored twice to propel Houston to second in the NWSL standings — just behind Angel City (2-0-0) on goal difference.

Captain and goalkeeper Jane Campbell has been a force for the Dash, putting up back-to-back shutouts to open the season. Campbell made nine saves in Houston’s opening 1-0 win against San Diego Wave FC before adding two more against Boston.

Angel City’s potent offense and Houston’s stingy defense will clash in a matchup of two squads looking to maintain their momentum and positions atop the league table. ACFC has faced the Dash eight times in four seasons, with a 3-1-4 record overall. Angel City won both matches in 2025, defeating Houston, 3-1, on the road before blanking the Dash in a 2-0 triumph at BMO Stadium.

In the Spotlight: Niehues Makes Her Mark for Club and Country

Maiara Niehues is proving to be a two-way threat for Angel City. In Saturday’s match against Bay FC, the Brazilian midfielder powered the offense with three shots and two chances created but also led the team’s defense with four tackles won. Niehues has already demonstrated her penchant for scoring this year, registering a goal against Chicago in ACFC’s home opener after picking up a pair against the Portland Thorns in a preseason match at the Coachella Valley Invitational.

Niehues is a factor on the international stage as well. She received her first senior national team call-up in February and was called up this week for the April FIFA window alongside fellow Brazilian teammate Ary Borges. Niehues previously represented Brazil at the U-20, U-18, U-17 and U-16 levels. She started in midfield in Brazil’s friendly match against Venezuela on March 4.

This Week at BMO Stadium: Celebrating a City of Heroes and the USA TODAY Women of the Year

This Friday, Angel City will be celebrating City of Heroes Night, a tribute to first responders, frontline workers, service members, and everyday heroes who keep our community safe, strong, and supported. The National Anthem will be performed by U.S. Marines veteran Malcolm Holman, and the Three-Clap will be led by former ACFC Captain Ali Riley and local firefighter Patricia Sweeney from the Women’s Fire Alliance.

The club will also recognize three ACFC players who call Los Angeles home: defenders Gisele Thompson and Savy King and goalkeeper Faith Nguyen. Thompson is from Studio City and played high school soccer at Harvard-Westlake before being signed by Angel City in 2024. King hails from Santa Monica, while Nguyen is from Costa Mesa and was part of the UCLA team that won the NCAA Championship in 2022.

Fans will be able to celebrate those who inspire them with a “Who is Your Hero?” coloring wall and Sol Rosa Rally flags starting when gates open at 5:30 p.m. The first 5,000 fans will also get the first pin in a set of five celebrating ACFC’s historic fifth season. The “Volemos” pin is the club’s call to action for the Angel City community to fly together and is only available at Friday’s match. Families can take advantage of the Young Heroes Meal Deal, which features $6 kids’ meals and $3 sweet treats at select locations in the stadium.

Additionally, Friday’s match will feature USA TODAY celebrating Angel City Football Club as part of its 2026 Women of the Year. The award recognizes the club’s legacy of female empowerment and honors the women who co-founded the club — Academy Award-winning actress Natalie Portman, venture capitalist Kara Nortman, and media entrepreneur Julie Uhrman — as well as the ongoing leadership of ACFC controlling owner Willow Bay, Dean of the USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism.

Tickets for the match against Houston are available HERE.

Angel City FC Travels to San Jose to Face NorCal Rival Bay FC

Karan Lodha for Angel City — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 23:30:00 GMT

Angel City Football Club (ACFC) will take on Northern California rival Bay FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, Calif., this Saturday at 5:45 p.m in the first away match of the 2026 NWSL season. The game will be televised on ION.

Last Time Out: Fuller, Borges Spark 4-0 Victory over Chicago

Angel City FC started the season with a flourish last Sunday, defeating Chicago Stars FC 4-0 at BMO Stadium. Midfielders Kennedy Fuller and Ary Borges both tallied a goal and an assist, with Borges setting up Fuller’s score in the 33rd minute before netting the third goal of the game in the 66th minute. Defender Evelyn Shores and midfielder Maiara Niehues also scored, while forward Sveindís Jónsdóttir registered her first assist of the season. Goalkeeper Angelina Anderson was highly effective and kept a clean sheet.

Plenty of new faces graced the ACFC lineup in Sunday’s match. Borges and defender Emily Sams got their first starts for the club, while forward Taylor Suarez and midfielder Carina Lageyre both made their NWSL debuts in the second half. Defender Savy King also returned to regular season action for the first time since May 2025, making continued progress in her recovery from a cardiac incident. Head Coach Alex Straus, who joined the team last June from FC Bayern Women, won his first-ever Angel City home opener.

The 4-0 win marked the most goals scored in a home opener as well as the first-ever clean sheet. The score also tied for the largest goal differential in club history, matching the 5-1 victory over the Portland Thorns in 2023.

Next Up: Hutton and Bay FC

Bay FC won its season opener, 2-1, against expansion franchise Denver Summit FC last Saturday. Forward Alex Pfeiffer and defender Joelle Anderson scored for the club, while new head coach Emma Coates picked up her first NWSL victory. Coates previously coached England’s U-23 National Team.

New in Bay FC’s attack this year is midfielder Claire Hutton, who joined the club from the Kansas City Current in February. In 2025, Hutton won the NWSL Shield with Kansas City and was named to the NWSL Best XI First Team. The midfielder has also made 15 appearances for the U.S. Women’s National Team, tallying a goal and an assist in that capacity. Hutton and Pfeiffer join ever-dangerous forward Racheal Kundananji in looking to reinvigorate an offense that scored a league-worst 26 goals last season.

Angel City has faced Bay FC four times in two seasons, with a 1-3-0 record overall.

In the Spotlight: Gorden to Set Appearance Mark

Saturday’s match will be Angel City captain and defender Sarah Gorden’s 73rd game, which will set the all-time record for games played by an ACFC player. Gorden is also expected to pass teammate Claire Emslie with her 42nd consecutive game played.

The consistency comes as no surprise for Gorden, who became Chicago’s first Iron Woman in 2021, playing every single minute for the Stars that season. The defender, who hails from Chicago, was acquired by Angel City in a trade in December 2021 and has been a mainstay in the ACFC lineup. In 2025, Gorden set a single-season club record with 2,275 minutes played.

Angel City Football Club Midfielder Hina Sugita Sustains Season-Ending Knee Injury

marketing@angelcity.com (Angel City) — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 19:00:00 GMT

LOS ANGELES (March 17, 2026) - Angel City Football Club (ACFC) confirmed today that midfielder Hina Sugita suffered a left anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury and will be placed on the season-ending injury (SEI) list.

“Hina is a world class athlete and teammate. We are devastated for her, but know she will bring the same focus and determination to her rehab as she does on the pitch. The entire team and club are behind her. We are prepared to support her on her road to recovery and look forward to having her back,” said ACFC Head Coach Alex Straus.

Sugita was traded to ACFC from the Portland Thorns in September 2025 where she spent four seasons. She appeared in four matches with four starts for ACFC after she arrived at the end of last season. A mainstay for the Japanese National Team, Sugita has 51 international caps including two FIFA Women’s World Cups (2019 and 2023).

Angel City Opens Fifth NWSL Season With 4-0 Victory Over Chicago

marketing@angelcity.com (Angel City) — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 17:18:19 GMT

LOS ANGELES, CA (March 15, 2026) - Led by a goal and an assist from midfielder Kennedy Fuller, Angel City Football Club (ACFC) routed the Chicago Stars, 4-0, in the club’s opening game of the 2026 NWSL season Sunday afternoon at BMO Stadium.

ACFC’s supporters unveiled a vibrant, hand-painted Lotería-inspired Tifo ahead of the 2026 home opener at BMO Stadium, paying tribute to Los Angeles, our community, and the culture that fuels matchday. The full meaning is linked HERE.

Angel City Remains Undefeated With 3-1 Victory Over Bay FC

Karan Lodha for Angel City — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 17:15:00 GMT

SAN JOSE, CA (March 21, 2026) - Angel City Football Club (ACFC) continued its torrid start to the NWSL season, defeating Northern California rival Bay FC, 3-1, Saturday evening at PayPal Park.

Forward Sveindís Jónsdóttir had two goals and an assist for Angel City in the win. The club’s 2-0 record marks the first time ACFC has opened a season with consecutive victories.

“It’s a local derby,” Head Coach Alex Straus said. “It’s important for us in California to win those games and to give that to our fans.”

The Icelandic attacker capitalized on an early counter-attacking opportunity to open the scoring. In the third minute, midfielder Kennedy Fuller sent a long pass from deep in the ACFC half past the Bay FC defense. Jónsdóttir ran onto the ball and into the penalty box before slotting a low left-footed shot past Bay FC goalkeeper Jordan Silkowitz.

“It's all about timing,” Jónsdóttir said. “So, it's good for me that I can be on full speed and get the ball and then I know that I can score.”

Defender Gisele Thompson put Angel City up 2-0 in the 32nd minute. Jónsdóttir received a pass from Shores and drove into the left side of the penalty box. Her run drew the attention of Silkowitz and two Bay FC defenders, allowing Jónsdóttir to drop a pass across the six-yard box to the streaking Thompson, who calmly launched the ball into the back of the net.

Jónsdóttir scored Angel City’s third goal of the game in the 53rd minute. Shores curled a corner from the right flag to the near post, where Jónsdóttir angled a header past the fingertips of Silkowitz for a 3-0 Angel City lead.

The seven total goals Angel City scored in victories against Bay FC and Chicago marked the club’s highest two-game mark since ACFC netted seven combined scores against the Houston Dash and Portland Thorns in October 2023.

“Having Alex from preseason has been a huge step in the right direction for us,” said defender Emily Sams, who started and wore the captain’s armband on Saturday. “Just being able to work the whole preseason on what we want [and] the kind of team we want to be has been super helpful.”

Midfielder Taylor Huff scored for Bay FC in the 56th minute. Huff received a pass from forward Cristiana Girelli on a give-and-go and bounced a shot off the inside of the left post to cut Angel City’s lead to 3-1.

But ACFC would hold Bay FC scoreless for the rest of the match.

“I'm very, very proud of the performance of the players,” Straus said, adding, “They managed the game. They played on a result [and] know how important those three points can be at [the] end of October, start of November.”

Bay FC had four corners in the first half but struggled to generate quality chances from their set pieces against a steadfast ACFC defense.

The home team also had a dangerous opportunity in the 23rd minute with a free kick just outside the penalty box. Bay FC midfielder Taylor Huff fired her initial attempt off the Angel City wall and then followed with another shot on the rebound, but ACFC goalkeeper Angelina Anderson was able to comfortably collect the ball.

Jónsdóttir almost added to Angel City’s first-half total in stoppage time when midfielder Maiara Niehues somehow muscled a pass to Jónsdóttir while falling. But Bay FC defender Maddie Moreau was able to recover to deflect Jónsdóttir’s shot with a sliding tackle at the six-yard box.

“We created big chances,” Straus said. “That’s maybe a little bit different than last year. So we need to continue to do that. We need to execute like Sveindís did today.”

Defender Savy King made her first start of the season against her former team and played over 80 minutes. Defender Sarah Gorden came for King in the 82nd minute. Gordon’s appearance marked her 73rd match with Angel City, setting an all-time record for games played with the club.

Huff was sent off in the closing minutes of the match after picking up two yellow cards in stoppage time.

Angel City will next face the Houston Dash at 7 p.m. PT on Friday, March 27, at BMO Stadium. The game will be televised on Prime Video.

Angel City FC Kicks Off Fifth NWSL Season With Matchup Against Chicago Stars FC

Karan Lodha for Angel City — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 22:26:09 GMT

2026 Season Preview

Angel City FC (ACFC) will begin its fifth season in the NWSL with its eyes firmly on the postseason. Bolstered by a set of offseason additions to complement the roster that was assembled by Sporting Director Mark Parsons in 2025, the club expects to be strongly competitive in the newly expanded 16-team league. The 2026 season will be the first full one for Head Coach Alex Straus after he joined ACFC in June after winning three titles in as many years with Bayern Munich in the Frauen-Bundesliga.

The Angel City offense will feature a retooled look, with several 2025 midseason acquisitions likely to start. Midfielder Maiara Niehues has already made her mark in the preseason, scoring a brace in Angel City’s victory over the Thorns in the Coachella Valley Invitational on Feb. 15. Countrywoman Ary Borges, who has made nearly 50 appearances with the Brazilian national team, signed with ACFC in January and will help drive the midfield attack for Straus. The midfield will also feature young star Kennedy Fuller, the versatile Nealy Martin, and Duke alumna Carina Lageyre.

Forward Riley Tiernan will be looking to make her presence felt up front once again for an Angel City offense that was top-five in the NWSL in shots taken in 2025. After joining last year’s preseason squad as a non-roster invitee, Tiernan was signed to a full contract by ACFC and went on to score eight goals in 26 starts in her first professional season — earning her an NWSL Rookie of the Year nomination.

Tiernan will be accompanied in the attack by dynamic players Jun Endo, Sveindís Jónsdóttir, and Prisca Chilufya. Fans can expect to see new mom Claire Emslie back on the pitch this season as well. Emslie and Endo have both been with ACFC since its inaugural season in 2022, while Jónsdóttir and Chilufya are each entering their first full year with the club.

The Angel City offense also features several young players. South Korean forward Casey Phair is back with the club after completing a loan to Djurgårdens IF and signed a contract extension with ACFC through 2028. Two new faces to look for in the Angel City attack are 2025 NCAA champion Taylor Suarez and National Team Replacement Player Rajanah Reed.

The ACFC back line will be anchored once again by captain Sarah Gorden, who has been a mainstay in the Angel City defense since 2022. Defender and U.S. Women’s National Team player Gisele Thompson is now signed through 2029 and will play a hybrid role on the right wing, pushing forward when attacking opportunities present themselves. Savy King is expected to start in her second season with Angel City after having recovered from the cardiac incident that she experienced in May 2025.

Former NCAA champion Evelyn Shores will be back for an Angel City defense that conceded the second-fewest penalties in 2025. Defender Sophia Mattice is starting her second season with the club, while Emily Sams and Karsyn Cherry joined ACFC in January after stints with the Orlando Pride and the University of Louisville, respectively.

Back as the incumbent in goal will be Angelina Anderson. She was drafted by Angel City in the 2023 NWSL draft and started 22 games in 2025. Fellow goalkeeper Hannah Seabert is entering her second season with ACFC, while Faith Nguyen signed a six-month contract with the club after starring at Texas Tech.

Sunday’s Match vs. Chicago Stars FC

Angel City FC (ACFC) will kick off its 2026 season at BMO Stadium against Chicago Stars FC on Sunday, Mar. 15, at 4 p.m. Pacific. The match will be streamed live on Victory+.

Angel City kicks off its historic fifth season in the NWSL under the leadership of Head Coach Alex Straus, who is starting his first full year with the club. Straus came to ACFC after building a perennial title contender in Germany, and he will be seeking to guide Angel City to its first league crown.

Angel City finished with a win and a loss in the preseason Coachella Valley Invitational, defeating Portland Thorns FC, 2-1, on Feb. 15 before losing to Seattle Reign FC, 1-0, on Feb. 21. Midfielder Maiara Niehues scored both goals for ACFC and will be looking to continue her offensive streak against the Stars.

Chicago finished last in the NWSL in 2025, conceding a league-worst 54 goals. The Stars return 19 players from last year, including goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher, who is entering her 11th season with the club. U.S. Women’s National Team player Mallory Swanson is not expected to face ACFC, as the forward is on maternity leave. New additions to Chicago’s roster include Nigerian international Michelle Alozie as well as goalkeeper and three-time NWSL Ironwoman Katie Lund.

Angel City has faced Chicago eight times in four seasons, with a 3-3-2 record overall.

Angel City Football Club Returns to BMO Stadium to Kick Off Fifth Season

marketing@angelcity.com (Angel City) — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 02:57:17 GMT

ACFC to Face Chicago Stars FC with Epic Game Day Experience: New In-Game Host, Pre-Match Fan Fest, Skywriting, Free Giveaway Items, Live Halftime Concert by Tia P, and Much More

Angel City Football Club Announces Final Roster Ahead of 2026 NWSL Season Kickoff

marketing@angelcity.com (Angel City) — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 19:49:49 GMT

LOS ANGELES (March 12, 2026) – Today, Angel City Football Club (ACFC) announced the club’s final roster ahead of Angel City’s home opener this Sunday, March 15 at BMO Stadium against the Chicago Stars. Kickoff is at 4:00 p.m. PT live on Victory+.

Angel City Football Club Reveals Its 2026 Season 5 Jersey "Flare"

marketing@angelcity.com (Angel City) — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 16:18:07 GMT

Milestone Season 5 design anchored by the club’s first-ever metallic center crest; in a club first, partners aligned to present their marks in Sol Rosa

Angel City Football Club Signs Forward Rajanah Reed as National Team Replacement Player

marketing@angelcity.com (Angel City) — Wed, 25 Feb 2026 20:00:00 GMT

LOS ANGELES (February 25, 2026) - Angel City Football Club (ACFC) today announced that the club has signed University of Central Florida standout forward Rajanah Reed as a National Team Replacement Player from February 24 through April 5.

Angel City FC Falls to Seattle Reign FC 1-0 in Closing Coachella Valley Invitational Match

Karan Lodha for Angel City — Sun, 22 Feb 2026 00:39:26 GMT

INDIO, CA (February 21, 2026) - Angel City Football Club (ACFC) dominated possession for most of the second half but lost, 1-0, to Seattle Reign FC in its second and final match of the Coachella Valley Invitational.

Seven Angel City Football Club Players Called Up to International Duty

marketing@angelcity.com (Angel City) — Wed, 18 Feb 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Sveindís Jónsdóttir, Taylor Suarez, Casey Phair, Maiara Niehues, Kennedy Fuller, Gisele Thompson, and Evelyn Shores to represent their countries during the upcoming FIFA window

Angel City Football Club Defeats Portland Thorns FC 2-1 In First Coachella Valley Invitational Match

marketing@angelcity.com (Angel City) — Mon, 16 Feb 2026 01:15:39 GMT

INDIO, CA (February 15, 2026) - Powered by a pair of goals by midfielder Maiara Niehues, Angel City defeated the Portland Thorns, 2-1, in its opening match of the Coachella Valley Invitational on Sunday afternoon.

Angel City Football Club Removes Defender Savy King From Season Ending Injury List

marketing@angelcity.com (Angel City) — Sat, 14 Feb 2026 20:00:00 GMT

King Returns to the Active Roster Following Cardiac Event in May 2025

Angel City Football Club Announces Key Additions To Sporting Staff Ahead Of 2026 Season

marketing@angelcity.com (Angel City) — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 21:00:00 GMT

Los Angeles (February 12, 2026) - Angel City Football Club (ACFC) today announced a series of strategic hires across its coaching, recruitment, performance, medical, operations, facilities, and player care departments ahead of the 2026 season, underscoring the club's continued commitment to excellence and investment in success on the pitch.

Girls Play Los Angeles (GPLA) by LA RAP

marketing@angelcity.com (Angel City) — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 19:23:42 GMT

Girls Play Los Angeles (GPLA) is a City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks program that provides girls and gender expansive youth across Los Angeles access to low/no-cost sports in a recreation-based environment. Through this partnership, Angel City FC is dedicated to making the soccer programming for youth more accessible and enhancing the larger ecosystem around it.

Angel City Football Club Loans Forward Maithe Lopez to Vancouver Rise FC

marketing@angelcity.com (Angel City) — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 18:00:00 GMT

LOS ANGELES (January 29, 2026) - Angel City Football Club (ACFC) announced today that Colombian forward Maithé López will be loaned to Vancouver Rise FC in the Northern Super League for the 2026 season. The loan will begin February 1 and end December 31. Lopez will return to ACFC after the conclusion of the current U-20 South American Championship with Colombia. López, who occupies an international roster spot for ACFC, was acquired by the club on Feb. 21, 2025.

Prior to her 2026 loan, Lopez returned from a seven-month loan with Gainbridge Super League Team Lexington SC, where she logged 391 minutes across seven appearances, starting in six matches.

Angel City Football Club Announces 2026 Preseason Roster

marketing@angelcity.com (Angel City) — Fri, 16 Jan 2026 16:00:04 GMT

Offseason Player Acquisition Announcements:

Angel City Football Club 2026 Regular Season Schedule Released By NWSL

marketing@angelcity.com (Angel City) — Thu, 15 Jan 2026 16:30:07 GMT

Club Will Play Season Home Opener at BMO Stadium against Chicago Stars FC Sunday, March 15 on Victory+

Angel City Football Club Signs NCAA National Champion And PAC-12 Champion Goalkeeper Faith Nguyen

marketing@angelcity.com (Angel City) — Wed, 14 Jan 2026 22:00:00 GMT

LOS ANGELES (January 14, 2026) - Angel City Football Club (ACFC) announced today that the club has signed goalkeeper Faith Nguyen of Texas Tech to a six-month contract ahead of the 2026 NWSL season.

Racing Louisville FC Acquires Midfielder Macey Hodge Via Trade With Angel City Football Club

marketing@angelcity.com (Angel City) — Wed, 14 Jan 2026 20:00:00 GMT

LOS ANGELES (January 14, 2026) - Today, Angel City Football Club (ACFC) confirmed that the team has traded midfielder Macey Hodge to Racing Louisville FC. In exchange, ACFC will receive $55,000 in intra-league transfer funds, $28,000 in allocation funds, and international spots for both 2026 and 2027.

Angel City Football Club and Forward Riley Tiernan Agree To Contract Extension Through 2028

marketing@angelcity.com (Angel City) — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 20:00:01 GMT

LOS ANGELES (January 13, 2026) - Angel City Football Club (ACFC) announced today that the club has extended forward Riley Tiernan’s contract through the 2028 season following her rookie campaign and NWSL Rookie of the Year and US Soccer Young Player of the Year nominations.