The Houston Dash won the 2020 NWSL Challenge Cup on Sunday, beating the Chicago Red Stars, 2-0, in the last. Its the very first NWSL trophy in Houstons history, as the Dash got the winning goal from Sophie Schmidt on an early penalty shot. The outcome covers up the Challenge Cup, a month-long, eight-team competition in Utah.
The Dash were able to set the tone early as midfielder Kristie Mewis won a nasty in package versus Chicago defender Kayla Sharples. Schmidt, a Canadian worldwide, stepped to the mark and had the ability to transform on goal, offering the Dash the lead in the 5th minute. They never relinquished it, and Shea Groom included an insurance goal in the 91st minute on a breakaway..
Groom and Dash captain Rachel Daly both ended the tournament with 3 goals– connected for the most by any gamer. Daly, the tournament MVP, won the NWSL Challenge Cup Golden Boot with 3 goals and 2 assists.
The Red Stars had shot chances throughout, however might never ever 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 years national championship.
Dash 2, Red Stars 0 (Final).
⚽ Dash: Sophie Schmidt – 5 (PK) ⚽ Dash: Shea Groom – 90 +1.