Welcome back to another exciting edition of Goalside Gossip, your ultimate source for all things women's soccer!

The NWSL keeps breaking records, it’s getting harder and harder to keep up. The Washington Spirit set a new club attendance record and we were there to cover it all. Meanwhile the Utah Royals find their groove and Seattle gets new owners. In the UWS, there was plenty of action with so many goals being piled up. So sit down, relax and get ready for all of the action in the world of women’s soccer this past week.

What to expect on this week’s edition of Goalside Gossip:

1. NWSL - KC Current vs Chicago Red Stars (2-2)

2. NWSL - Utah Royals FC vs Bay FC (1-0)

3. NWSL - Washington Spirit vs SD Wave (1-1)

4. NWSL - Meet Seattle Reign’s New Owners

5. UWS - Our Favorite Matches

6. Goalside Gossip Pitch side Exclusive: Alex Morgan

As always, we have more in store with exclusive player interviews, tactical breakdowns, and a closer look at how teams are gearing up for upcoming matches. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this week's blend of Goals, Gossip, and Glory from the world of women's soccer. Whether you're a seasoned fan or new to the sport, there's something here for everyone as we celebrate the passion and skill of these incredible athletes.

NWSL

KC Current vs Chicago Red Stars (2-2)

The Kansas City Current extended their unbeaten streak to 15 games with a 2-2 draw against the Chicago Red Stars on, tying the second-longest unbeaten streak in NWSL history. Bia Zaneratto and Temwa Chawinga scored in the second half for Kansas City, who lead the league with 29 points. Despite dominating with 28 shots, the Current couldn't secure a win as Chicago equalized in the 90th minute through Staab's header. The match, held at a sold-out CPKC Stadium during Pride Night, saw head coach Vlatko Andonovski commend his team's fighting spirit. Kansas City next faces the Portland Thorns on June 23.

Utah Royals FC vs Bay FC (1-0)

The Utah Royals secured their first road win of the season with a 2-1 victory over Bay FC, their fellow first-year club, on. Despite Bay FC dominating the first half, the Royals, led by head coach Amy Rodriguez, leveled the match in the second half and found a late winner. Kate Del Fava scored the decisive goal in the 89th minute, her second of the year, assisted by rookie Ally Sentnor. The Royals overcame a disallowed Bay FC goal just minutes earlier and ended a six-match losing streak. Utah finished with a 7-4 advantage in shots on target, with goalkeeper Mandy Haught making three crucial saves. This victory nearly doubled their points in the standings, moving them closer to escaping last place.

Washington Spirt vs SD Wave (1-1)

The Washington Spirit set a new club attendance record by hosting 19,897 fans at Audi Field for their match against the San Diego Wave on June 15, 2024. This attendance nearly maxed out the stadium's 20,000 capacity, highlighting the team's growing popularity since making Audi Field their full-time venue in 2023. This was the second attendance record broken this season, surpassing the 11,734 fans who attended the home opener in March. Despite the large crowd, the match ended in a 1-1 draw, with Croix Bethune scoring a late equalizer for the Spirit. The Spirit will next play Gotham FC on June 23.

Seattle Reign’s New Owners

The Seattle Sounders and private equity firm Carlyle Group have agreed to purchase Seattle Reign FC for $58 million. This acquisition marks a substantial increase from the Reign's previous valuation of $49 million in October 2023. OL Groupe, the former owner, will sell its 97% stake in the team, while former NBA star Tony Parker retains his 3% share. The transaction is pending approval from both the NWSL and MLS Board of Governors, with the deal expected to close shortly.

This sale follows a trend of rising valuations and increased private equity interest in the NWSL. The recent sale of the San Diego Wave for $120 million and other significant investments highlight the growing financial appeal of women's soccer. The Sounders are expected to take over much of the Reign's day-to-day operations while keeping sporting operations separate. This strategic move is part of a broader effort to diversify portfolios and capitalize on the surging popularity of women's sports.

NWSL Updated Table

United Women’s Soccer (UWS)

As the new official partner of the UWS, we will be covering some players, games and stories from the United Women’s Soccer League. We encourage everyone to go check out their website and find your favorite team.

Week 5 from the UWS has came and went and although it was hard to choose, here are our favorite games from this past match week in the UWS:

New Jersey Copa FC vs Steel United NJ (5-1)

The New Jersey Derby was an exciting one for New Jersey Copa FC who was able to stick 5 goals past Steel United NJ. Taylor Bielan, Julia Gill, Meaghan O'Callahan, Jordyn Allen, Hailey Santiago and Emily Jozak each had a part in the action (whether with a goal or an assist) for NJ Copa. meanwhile Sarah Wnorowski was the sole goal scorer for Steel United.

Reno Vikings vs Primero De Mayo (4-1)

This game can be summarized with one word: Leslie Jacobo Duran. Leslie had all four of Reno’s goals with an outstanding solo performance. For Primero De Mayo, Hayley Poland was the sole goal scorer.

Coppermine United vs Back Mountain Torrent (5-0)

Coppermine United was in the drivers seat from the start with a decisive 5-0 win against Back Mountain Torrent. Juliana Taxter, Maria Romo-Nichols and Kale'a Perry each had one while Megha Salvi had two during Coppermine’s big win.

Did you miss the action from week 4? Click HERE for a summary of all the action. Also, visit the UWS website if you want to catch up on a full action-packed weekend from the UWS.

Pitch side Exclusive: Alex Morgan

This past weekend, Goalside Gossip was at the Washington Spirit game in the press box and we have so many cool photos and stories to share with you. We will be posting them on our instagram so make sure to follow us HERE. Perhaps the coolest thing though is that we were able to get an interview with the legend herself Alex Morgan!
See what she had to say about Trinity Rodman and more on our Instagram!

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