Chicago Stars fall to Orlando Pride 0-6

Friday, March 14, 2025

The Chicago Stars faced the defending National Women’s Soccer League champions, the Orlando Pride, in a tough season opener on Friday night in Orlando, Florida. Unfortunately for the Stars, the match ended in a lopsided 6-0 defeat. Orlando dominated from the start, controlling possession and creating pressure on Chicago’s defense. The Pride quickly set the tone with an early attack, and they continued to pressure Chicago, especially through set pieces.

The Pride opened the scoring just seven minutes into the match after Morgan Gautrat set up Haley McCutcheon, who found the back of the net. Ally Watt added another goal off a set piece before halftime. In the second half, things worsened for Chicago, as a misjudged clearance by defender Hannah Anderson resulted in an own goal, giving Orlando a further advantage. Julie Doyle and Barbra Banda both added to the scoreline, with Banda finishing with a brace, sealing a commanding victory for the Pride.

Despite the heavy loss, a highlight for Chicago came in the 79th minute when defender Sam Staab made her long-awaited return to the pitch. Staab, who had been sidelined due to a season-ending injury last summer, made her first professional appearance after a 106-match streak. Looking ahead, Chicago will focus on their upcoming home opener against Houston on March 23. Despite their challenging start, the Stars remain hopeful, remembering their journey from a tough opening loss in 2021 to making the NWSL Championship that same year.