Chicago Red Stars lose against Racing Louisville 0-1

Chicago Stars FC suffered a narrow 0-1 loss at home to Racing Louisville despite a determined effort. The match’s only goal came from Louisville’s Emma Sears, who capitalized on a defensive mistake by Chicago. The game faced an initial two-hour delay due to severe weather in the Bridgeview, Illinois area, which forced both teams to adjust their preparations before taking the field in search of their first win of the season.

From the start, Chicago looked to dominate the match, winning multiple corner kicks and creating early chances. Rookie Justina Gaynor, making her first professional start, delivered a promising cross that found defender Sam Staab, but her header went wide. Minutes later, another Chicago attempt, involving Taylor Malham and Ludmila, set up Jameese Joseph, but her shot was saved by Louisville’s goalkeeper, Katie Lund. Despite these efforts, Chicago couldn’t find the back of the net in the opening minutes.

The first half saw more opportunities for Chicago, especially from set pieces. In the 17th minute, Staab’s free kick connected with the head of defender Hannah Anderson, but the ball hit the crossbar. A few minutes later, Staab’s long throw found Ally Schlegel, who flicked the ball back to Anderson for another header that went straight into Lund’s hands. These near misses left Chicago frustrated as they couldn’t convert their chances into goals.

The match turned in the 27th minute when Chicago made a costly defensive error, turning the ball over in their own third. Emma Sears seized the opportunity, and her shot, deflected off a Chicago defender, sailed over goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher and into the net. This goal proved to be the difference as Louisville managed to hold on to their lead for the rest of the match.

In the second half, Chicago fought hard to find an equalizer, with Ludmila making a dangerous run and sending in a cross that failed to find its target. Despite their efforts, Racing Louisville maintained their composure, controlling possession and frustrating Chicago’s attacking attempts. As the match ended, Louisville took all three points, leaving Chicago without any points in the league standings. The team will now look to regroup during the international break before traveling to San Jose to face Bay FC on April 13.

Pictures by: ADRIEL LOPEZ and OUTPLAYED.TV