Seattle Kicks off Summer Cup
On July 19th, the NWSL x Liga MX Femenil Summer Cup kicked off, featuring competitions across the United States and Mexico. The lineup includes all 14 NWSL teams and 6 teams from Liga MX Femenil, totaling 20 teams. The tournament spans from July to October, primarily beginning over the international break for the 2024 Olympics.
Group A: Portland Thorns FC, Seattle Reign FC, Utah Royals FC, Tijuana
Group B: Angel City FC, San Diego Wave FC, Bay FC, América
Group C: Kansas City Current, Houston Dash, Tigres, Pachuca
Group D: NJ/NY Gotham FC, Washington Spirit, Chicago Red Stars, Chivas
Group E: Orlando Pride, North Carolina Courage, Racing Louisville, Rayadas
Today marked the commencement of the tournament with the Seattle Reign facing off against the Utah Royals and Tigres Femenil vs. Pachuca. My Friday night was spent sitting in the front row of Lumen Field, cheering on what I found to be an exciting night of football, both in the physicality of the match and in witnessing three debuts for the Reign.
Defender Julia Lester was featured in the starting 11, marking her debut for the Reign. Rookie Sam Meza was subbed on in the 57th minute to replace Maddie Mercado, making her first touches on the pitch as a professional. Ainsley McCammon, the youngest player for the Seattle Reign, made her professional debut in the 90th minute.
The atmosphere was exciting, and there was a lot to be excited about. Olivia Athens scored her third career goal after converting from the spot in the 43rd minute, following a penalty won by McKenzie Weinert, putting the Reign ahead. Tziarra King, in the 77th minute, hit a cross that was headed in, to be the game-winner, by Sofia Huerta, marking her first goal since 2018. Lumen Field celebrated the win, cheering whenever there was an exciting shot or jumping to their feet when Seattle scored.
Women’s football has always been exciting and fast paced, and this game was no exception. I was at the edge of my seat the entirety of game yelling and cheering at every opportunity.
It will be thrilling to see what this summer of football will bring and hopefully lead to more recognition of the game across the States and Mexico.
As always, support women’s sports. Go Dawgs!
L
