STARS finish a 3 – 3 vs North Carolina Courage

In a thrilling NWSL match on August 22, 2025, the Chicago Stars FC and North Carolina Courage played to a dramatic 3–3 draw at SeatGeek Stadium. After a scoreless first half, North Carolina took control with goals from Manaka Matsukubo in the 49th minute and Tyler Lussi in the 62nd, establishing what seemed like a comfortable 2–0 lead. The Courage appeared poised for a win, dominating much of the second half’s early moments and celebrating a milestone for Meredith Speck, who made her 100th NWSL regular-season appearance and provided a key assist.

However, the match took a historic turn when Chicago’s Ludmila entered at halftime and delivered a record-breaking performance. She scored three goals in the span of just 10 minutes and 9 seconds—the fastest hat trick in NWSL history—at the 76th, 81st, and 86th minutes. Despite a brief moment of hope for North Carolina when Jaedyn Shaw scored in the 83rd minute to regain a 3–2 lead, Ludmila’s third goal sealed the draw in stunning fashion. The Stars’ comeback highlighted their resilience and fighting spirit under interim head coach Ella Masar.

Beyond the scoreline, the game was celebrated as one of the most exciting of the season. It showcased individual brilliance, team grit, and the emotional highs and lows that define elite-level soccer. With standout performances from players like Ludmila, Manaka Hayashi, and Sam Staab—who notched her first multi-assist game—the draw was more than just a result; it was a statement from a rejuvenated Chicago team pushing forward in a competitive NWSL season.