Chicago Stars FC defeated Bay FC with a staggering 2-1

San Jose, CA, April 13, 2025

Chicago Stars FC secured a dramatic and hard-fought 2-1 road victory over Bay FC, marking their first win of the 2025 NWSL season. Brazilian forward Ludmila starred with a first-half brace, both goals assisted by Jameese Joseph, who notched her first two assists of the season. Bay FC responded with a penalty kick conversion after a handball in the box, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Chicago’s early dominance. Goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher added to the occasion with a historic milestone, earning her 71st career regular-season win—the most in NWSL history.

Despite having only 30 percent possession in the first half, Chicago struck first in just the fifth minute. Joseph orchestrated a brilliant run and delivered a pinpoint cross to Ludmila, who beat her defender and the goalkeeper with a composed finish. Although the goal was initially flagged offside, a VAR review overturned the call. The Stars continued to push and nearly doubled their lead in the 18th minute, but Bay FC’s goalkeeper Jordan Silkowitz intervened effectively to deny Ludmila a second.

The breakthrough came again late in the first half as Joseph once more drove the ball up the right side, finding Ludmila, who confidently cut past her defender and curled a shot into the bottom corner to secure her brace. Chicago started the second half with high energy, creating an early chance through Ally Schlegel, whose shot was saved. Bay FC got on the scoreboard in the 57th minute via a penalty kick by Caroline Conti, awarded after a handball in the box by Maitane. Though Bay FC increased pressure, Naeher and the Stars’ defense held firm.

The final stretch of the match saw Bay FC pushing for an equalizer, but Chicago remained resilient, with key defensive plays and strong goalkeeping preserving the lead. Schlegel had another opportunity to extend the lead, but her flicked effort was easily saved. In the closing minutes, Bay FC managed three shots on goal, yet none found the back of the net. With the final whistle, the Stars claimed all three points, building confidence as they now prepare to face the Utah Royals FC in their next match.