Futbol W: Gotham FC discussion+Cloé Lacasse joins the show+NWSL Stick or Switch Predictions+WAFCON discussion+Top 10 goals

23:21Cloé Lacasse:And it's paying off so far. Yeah, absolutely. And we're seeing that here in numbers, especially from you. and I can't say this enough, those 19 goal contributions, you are all time now here for Utah Royals. But with your role in the attack, you're producing both as a scorer and a creator, clearly with these numbers. Do you feel your game has evolved since coming back from injury? Yeah, I think there's definitely more joy in the way I play now. I think last year was, I think it was early August, I would step back on the pitch. And I think when you're coming back from a serious injury, it takes a little bit of time mentally to get your footing again.

23:58Cloé Lacasse:And I think here the coaching staff, the front office, have given me full license to do what I'm good at, and they've helped the group find success with other people's strengths as well. Sometimes you can kind of be forced into a certain formation or a certain style of play, but I think here we're working with individual strengths and we're finding ways to kind of get the best out of one another. Yeah, so we're coming up on you, a year of you coming back from that ACL injury. As you said, we know that you've been very open about your journey. We saw some writing here on your social media as well.

24:28Was there a point during that rehab process when you genuinely questioned whether you would be able to get at this level again that we're seeing you now?

24:38Cloé Lacasse:Yeah, I would definitely say there was a few moments during the recovery. However, when I had the injury initially, I think the next day I was like, listen, let's just have the surgery and just kind of get to work. I think that's the mentality I've always had was just put your head down and get to work. You don't need the attention. You don't need to do it a certain way. You don't have to compare. And I kind of wanted to take my own journey and I want to take control of how that recovery was going to look like. But, yeah, I think it's hard when you're in it because you lose the game you love for a little bit of time and it becomes so individual and it becomes such a mental head game, I'm going to say, because you think about those things.

25:17Cloé Lacasse:Will you get back to where you were? Will you be stronger? Will you be weaker? So on and so on. But yeah, since being back on the pitch, I think my teammates have done a great job giving me confidence as well. And just being able to be me on the pitch and doing what I do again. And yeah, it's been it's been great. And hopefully it inspires others that go through that journey to also feel strong when they come back. Yeah, that's definitely great motivation. You said you lost a little bit of love for the game. Not that I'm terribly surprised that you said that, but what was maybe a moment coming back that made you fall back in love with the game?

25:51Cloé Lacasse:I think it's just when you're so isolated, you start to reflect on why you do it. And just going through, before the surgery, I could barely walk. And you're thinking to yourself, oh my gosh, will I be able to run again? Will I be able to do this and that? There is a life beyond soccer. So when you have a serious injury like that, you have to really reflect and be like, okay, how much do you love doing this? Because it can take away a lot as well. But as soon as I started recovering again, I ended up feeling stronger than I felt prior to the injury. So that's something that I take great pride in.

26:26Cloé Lacasse:And I'm so happy to have had the medical staff help me get to this point now where mentally and physically I feel good. I feel strong and I feel better than where I was prior to the injury, honestly. I mean, it's never good timing to have an injury, right? But timing-wise, Chloe, we're coming up on 2027. You obviously know where I'm going with this question. We're up here on World Cup year. I know we're counting it down here in studio, but you particularly. How front of mind is this tournament when the timing is great on you coming back from this injury, really fully form, and how Utah's doing, and also thinking about the national team?

27:03Cloé Lacasse:yeah I think it's definitely there especially after having the men's world cup being hosted by Canada just now as well it definitely kind of lit a spark and I'm just looking forward to these qualifiers coming up and I think Canada's also in a really good spot right now we've been growing we have Casey Stoney there now and I think she's done a great job building trust amongst the group so yeah I feel healthy I feel good and I'm happy I get to represent Canada here soon hopefully at the World Cup. Yeah, we're looking forward to seeing you there as well with that beautiful red jersey. But taking it back here to Utah, obviously, you just talked about your expectations with Canada at the World Cup.

27:40But we're putting Utah as a contender now at this point. We have to, Chloe, in third place and still consistently staying there the first few weeks. They're behind us. We're in the second half of the season. When it comes to championship potential, How does this group view that possibility?

27:58Cloé Lacasse:Yeah, we definitely don't want to get too ahead of ourselves. We have been going game by game, especially in the NWSL. You know how competitive it is. But, yeah, looking at that table, we're proud of where we are right now, but we also still have a lot of ambition. We know that we're in the race and we can compete to be at the top of that table. So for us, it's still just keeping that game by game mindset and continuing to grow throughout the season. And yeah, I don't think we've seen the Utah Royals at their best yet. So I hope it's soon to come. And yeah, I hope we continue to grow. And hopefully we can get a little something at the end of the season.

28:34I love that you said that we haven't seen the best of Utah yet. That little nugget just to keep us hooked. We're already hooked with what we've seen from Utah Royals this season. But I want to take it a little bit to your personal side right now, Chloe, because I asked you before we came on, I wanted to make sure that you had the ring on, of course. Tell us, first of all, congratulations. You are engaged. These pictures are beautiful. But what is the story behind this lovely engagement?

29:00Cloé Lacasse:Yeah, so Darcy and I actually, we dated in high school. We were high school sweethearts. And then afterwards, as we know, the beautiful game tends to take us elsewhere. So I ended up going to school in the States. He ended up going to university away from our hometown as well. So we were apart for quite a few years. And then just before the last World Cup, actually, we ended up meeting up again. And, yeah, we've been together ever since. And he ended up proposing over the holidays last year. And now, yeah, we're just kind of living in our fiancé era. And we're looking forward to getting married this December in Banff.

29:37Cloé Lacasse:So it should be a nice winter wedding. Hopefully not too much new. Listen, I love love. So I love that you were able to tell us that story. High school sweethearts and fate just brought you back together. Maybe it'll be fate to bring a championship here for Utah, and then you can celebrate accordingly even more. I mean, I don't think that I can't think of a better year for you, Chloe. So manifesting that for you and for Utah. But for now, congratulations on the season that we've already seen from you, on your engagement, and of course, for what's to come here in the 2027 World Cup. Thank you so much.

30:13Cloé Lacasse:Thank you very much. So great to chat with the great Chloe Lacasse here with Utah Royals. Definitely on the rise. I mean, we're talking about expected goals per game 2025 or 2026. Maybe it's not the biggest jump in the world, but when you see how many victories they have still up to this point versus the loss that we saw in 2025 and the shutouts too, that's also an interesting part here. Consistency, at least in the defense. We were talking about McGlynn as well, but let's get into the Utah of it all. Let's get into it. Let's do it, Allie. The question is, how big of a contender? No, that's an even bigger question.

30:57But let's start with contenders to the actual championship. Are they? Yeah, I do think they are. I think they're obviously making a huge jump and transition from last season and the previous seasons. All of them tied together into one, and I think they deserve to be in third place. They're a complete team. They're not, you know, now reacting to games. I think they're dictating games. They're dictating their play. They have complete performances, and they have goal scores, and they share the ball. It's really fun to watch, and it's not always pretty. As we know, football isn't always pretty, but they're getting the job done, and they're playing consistent, and they deserve to be where they are.

31:40So, yes, of course, if they continue to win, they're continuing to knock out these performances and playing really good football at a high level. I think they will definitely have an opportunity to be in the playoffs and potentially in the semis or final. Jeff? Yeah, I mean, incredible. I was doing our midseason grades for.com and I had them at A+. And I said, all right, always room for improvement, right? A. And then they went out and won 5-1 against Portland. I think we'll go back to A+. to A +, but they've done everything collectively as a team. I compared it in that, too, to, like, the Leicester City of a decade ago, where it's like, where did this come from?

32:18But also you're waiting for it to regress, right? You're waiting for midseason dip to come, and they fall back to eighth place, tenth place, whatever it is. And it hasn't happened. They had the slight blip coming out of the summer break, back on track. They're still in the shield race, and they just continue to do it collectively. Chloe Lacasse is putting up really MVP contender numbers. I don't know if she'll end up winning that, but should be in the conversation. You've got Mina Tanaka. You've got Kiana Palacios. And then the defense. I mean, Kate Del Fava has anchored that. Manny McGlynn has been spectacular in goal.

32:50And the set pieces. I mean, the North Carolina game where they've got three offset pieces and a PK. And they didn't even dominate that game. And that's where you start talking about, too, you know, maybe where we were skeptical and we thought they were lucky. that's where those are how good teams get things done where you don't dominate the ball you maybe don't have your best day and you still win a game and score four goals so i think that they've shown us everything is it yeah is it a one season wonder maybe we've seen that with uh orlando might be harsh to say but you know what they did in that championship double year but even if it's only a one season wonder i think they're showing us that they can continue this into the back half of the year and maybe go get a trophy out of it.

33:32Worry about next year, next year. This has been incredible. One of the best stories, best story of the season. One of the best stories I think we've seen in the league in a while. And I want to highlight Del Fava as a defender, scoring a couple goals, set pieces and just getting on the end of things. Well done just from, you know, helping lead the team from the back. It's really incredible that, you know, they're making each other look good, sharing the ball really well and scoring goals. And that's what you need to do in order to win yeah the press continues to be great too yeah absolutely and I'm not surprised that producer Beto jumped in my ear I was actually gonna mention it Beto but I'll credit your idea he said hey just like the Arsenal men with the set pieces I mean it's true right but when it comes to even set pieces too Ali maybe a lot of rivals trainers are like oh man yeah but the only score is set pieces yeah wouldn't you like to take advantage of every single set piece that you have and Utah's doing that.

34:22No, you're absolutely right. I mean, set pieces are a part of the game. And, you know, you have to be able to, you know, be a threat on any type of set piece because it could help you win games. And they either win you games or they lose you games at the end of the day. And you definitely want to be on the side that's winning games. So that consistency on the set pieces, you could tell that they train that day in and day out and how successful they've been. And also on the defensive side of things, and they've been really really consistent on you know dealing with set pieces defensively so the organization from back to front has been brilliant and yeah set pieces are part of the game and if you can finish like Utah has been finishing then that's brilliant for you and that's why they're sitting third on the table.

35:05Yeah good defenses and set pieces combine those both and maybe we're talking about a championship caliber team here with Utah Royals especially starting from the back, like you said, with that shout-off for McGlynn. Life insurance is one of those things that's easy to put off because it doesn't feel urgent today. But it's not just another financial box to check. It's about having a plan in place. So if life throws something unexpected at your family, they're not left dealing with the financial side without support. Ethos makes getting life insurance fast and easy. It's 100 % online, so you can get a quote in seconds, apply in minutes, and get same-day coverage.

35:45There's no medical exam. You just answer a few simple health questions online. You can get up to$3 million in coverage, and some policies start as low as$30 a month. Ethos has also earned strong customer feedback with a 4.8 out of 5-star rating on Trustpilot based on more than 4 ,000 reviews. Take 10 minutes to get covered today with life insurance through Ethos. Get your free quote at ethos.com slash sports. That's E-T-H-O-S dot com slash sports. Application times may vary, rates may vary. Trust pilot rating as of June 1st, 2025. Hey Chicago, class it up with Crocs. You know back to school is coming in fast.

36:28So why wait to find your new Fave footwear? Step into a local Crocs store and step into your new look. Try it, style it. Make it yours. Because the right pair doesn't just show up. It shows off. First day fits, handled. Walk out ready for whatever's next. Visit your nearest Croc store today. Let's take a look at more action over the weekend. We saw Washington Spirit here versus San Diego. Give me a Scania and company. 16th minute though, Luchmila's shot here would be saved, Jeff. Yeah, she gets through traffic. I mean, you know, big save. You can see the rain there on the replay. This was terrible.

37:12These were terrible conditions to play in, too. So some routine saves like that actually harder on the day. Yeah, totally agree. Sofia Cantore here getting it, but her shot would be saved here by Sandra Panos Alley. Yeah, obviously a couple of deflections there. Well done for the counter press for Washington to be able to provide that opportunity, but unfortunately saved. And Rebe Bernal here from distance, Jeff, and not too far from getting the goal. Try your luck. We've seen some from distance from the Spirit team, some very good goals from the Spirit team on the season. San Diego, though, 59th minute, almost 60th minute here, would find the 1-0 for Leah Godfrey.

37:52I mean, well done by the rookie. She's been proving herself game in and game out. She's been super consistent. And in this moment, that was pure mentality and skill at the end. Jonas Adubal there. I think he was a little bit happy after that. I love it. Victory. Kimmy Escanio, by the way, had a tough hit there from Rebecca Bernal, was able to walk off on her own. So hopefully everything is all right there with her. And everything is more than all right here for Gotham FC. They're sitting in first place, 37 points. As we just mentioned, Utah Royals with 33. But Washington Spirit there dropping points at home against the San Diego Wave, who is also pressuring there in the first few standings here, actually, on the table there in fourth place.

38:34What was Washington lacking here for you, Jeff? Well, I think it's an aggregation for me of the month that they've had. You look at, and not that any other teams have had this, right? But you look at the stretch they've had of midweek games, of that game at Citi Field in the smoke, games on the road. They're out in Utah. So I think you look at this and you get to the end of July or, you know, first days of August here now. And this is the time in the NWSL where you get in these tough stretches. is you're coming back from a break. The league has crunched games into the schedule. And again, you test the team's depth.

39:08And I think they showed us that, that win in Boston where they rotated, I think, seven players it was and still pick up a result and deal with this road trip. And obviously you get back home, you're on the back end of that in terrible conditions. I think that's a piece of it of just aggregated fatigue on a team that, you know, has also traveled more than most. We talk about this with Gotham. They have their CONCACAF carryover into May. So I think that this is, you know, you look at the stretch that they were on. They were 10 out of 12 victories in that stretch to really stake their claim in the shield.

39:44I don't think it's terribly worrisome against a team that, a San Diego team that is, you know, similarly can be a contender. Yeah, so it shouldn't be red alarms all over the place. But the reality is, is that San Diego maybe took advantage of Washington's fatigue here, Ali. Yeah, I think there's obviously a few factors, right? The conditions are difficult. I used to love playing in the rain because the ball moves a lot faster. But it can disrupt here and there. Both teams obviously have to play. But San Diego, yeah, they traveled far as well to play at Audi Field. Rowdy Audi. I don't know if it was as rowdy that day.

40:20So maybe Washington didn't have that 12th supporter, as they usually do every other weekend. But it's true. The travel is really difficult. Playing three games in one week, that's also really demanding for a lot of players. I just think that in these moments, when you are maybe a little bit more tired than normal, then you have to actually do the little things right. I think the little details really matter. So that's completing passes from A to B. That's doing the work early, getting in the right position, anticipating plays a little bit earlier than you would. getting into tackles, having that mentality and that belief.

41:01And I don't necessarily think they were poor in those categories on the day. They just didn't get the little details right. And I think on the goal, you see that was pure mentality. That was pure physicality. That was just the willingness to want to put the ball in the back of the net. And, you know, Bernal there, I think that was tough getting kind of, you know, beat to the ball and then shoved off the ball a little bit. But those little moments are going to change the trajectory of the season for a lot of these teams. Because you are playing against the best of the best. San Diego and Washington Spirit, they're two of the best teams.

41:32So, you know, that happens. But on the day, you know, San Diego is just the better team and they finish their chance. Yeah, if we're talking about this as a potential championship game here in D.C., that can't happen for Washington. The basics truly become the most important part of the game. Ali, as you just said, and Beto, our producer, will correct me if I'm wrong, but I don't think it rains that often in San Diego. So they were able to play in the rain. So no excuses, play like a champion, which is exactly what San Diego did. We're going to take a trip down memory lane because we're over halfway done with this NWSL season.

42:09And we're just going to remember what we thought before the season even started with our predictions. We're going to dive right into our 2026 NWSL season predictions. And Crystal, newcomer. I'm starting this off? Yes. Yes, you are. You are. Okay. MVP, got to go with Chawinga. When you think of an MVP, you think of if you remove this player from the team, she's such an incredible player that I think at her full healthy self, running away with the MVP award. Now, my surprise team, might come as a bit of a surprise to you all, but North Carolina courage. and I say this under a new manager in Mack Lynn, you know, Kaylin Sheridan, Ali Schlegel, adding to the players they already have there.

42:49So I try to spice it up a little bit here. MVP, I just enjoy watching her play. Monaka, midfielder of the year last year for NWSL. She has so much quality and so much potential, and I'm encouraged to see what North Carolina can do, and she's a big part of that. Shield winner, I have to say that. I think I'd get in trouble if I didn't. See, transparency. Surprise team, again, relative. I say Racing Louisville here because I don't think we talk about them like they're a team that is just going to hang around. They're a team that nobody's going to really care about in some way. Sorry, Racing Louisville, right?

43:24But they love that. Like, they want to be doubted. Most impactful newcomer, Gianna Palacios. She was a Utah Royals team that created their best player, and right now she could really be that star. I think it's Washington's time. This is a team that has been through it all, and they know what it's like to be just right there with the title and reach. So I think this definitely can be their season. Do you believe in second chances? I do. But the season isn't over yet. I mean, listen, being wrong is fine. But again, we have an opportunity to stick or to switch. So we're going to go over those picks again, Allie.

44:04We're going to start with your picks. So most impactful newcomer, Amanda Gutierrez, breakout player, Jimis Joseph. Your surprise team was Angel City. Your MVP, Monaka Matsukubo. How about your shield winner in Gotham? So not very surprised there. And your champion, Washington Spirit. So, some things have changed. A lot has changed. In your mind and your heart. A lot has changed in my mind and in my heart. Surprisingly, right? I don't necessarily think that Gutierrez hasn't been an impact, right? She's been a threat. She has caused some problems for defenses within the league. But I do think there's been a more impactful signing, which is Jordan Dudley for me.

44:53There we go. Yes, for the Gotham FC, she's been incredible. She's earned her moments. She's gotten assists. She's gotten goals. She's been able to prove why she deserves to be starting now for Gotham. And she wasn't necessarily doing that at the beginning of the season. So now she's got minutes. She's proven herself. So that is why Jordan is definitely on the list for the signing. Breakout player for me is Ashley Sanchez. I think she's been incredible for North Carolina Curry. She's been just so impactful in the front line. She's been leading the front line. She's been scoring goals. She's been applying assists and really creating some chances for North Carolina to lead and win, and now they're in the top eight.

45:37So well done to her in getting her team back to where they belong. And my surprise team, obviously. It has to be. I think all of us can agree that Utah has now in third place. They've been incredible. I think it's that belief now in the team that we're seeing. It's not necessarily how talented they have been, but that belief that you can see that now they're a complete team compared to a lot of other teams in the league. MVP for me has definitely changed because obviously Monaca, unfortunately, I mean, fortunately for her, but unfortunate for us, she's gone to Chelsea on a five-year deal, so rightfully so.

46:11She's going to be incredible for them. But I think Rose Lavelle, especially in these narrow games that we've seen, she's been coming up clutch. Obviously, when she's fit, she's healthy. We could tell she's the best midfielder in the world. I think she is incredible. She's been keeping Gotham at the top of the table. And my Shield winner, Val, is in between, I think, because obviously you have D.C., you have San Diego, and you have Gotham all competing for this championship. We're going to just go right down. Oh, sorry, Shield winner. I skipped over that. Gotham, that didn't change for me. Then we go up to the champion.

46:47I think San Diego has proven themselves because they've beaten both Gotham and Washington. And I think that they have a really good chance coming into this playoff. Okay, yeah. Interesting changes. I have to agree with Rose Lavelle, and not only because it has to be a natural switch here for you, but she is truly impactful. That MVP, that problem solver, especially when they're deep, that city field goal is competing with the Kiana Palacios goal, as I mentioned to Chloe here. All right, so we are going to go now with Jeff's former predictions. Most impactful newcomer agreeing with Allie here with Amanda Gutierrez, breakup player in Allie Centenor, which we can now switch that little shield there behind her.

47:29Surprise team racing Louisville. There's an argument to that, though. We can dive into that here in a second. MVP gift Monday, shield winner Washington Spirit, and champion San Diego Wave. So shield and champion probably not that far off. your first impressions Jeff here and with things that have changed Ali Center going to another team for starters yeah I mean look I hope not to be wrong twice for starters I guess you're right surprise team certainly racing in Louisville a surprise in all the wrong ways I would say I thought they'd be better than they were especially after last year but I mean starting with with most impactful signing and agreeing with Ali at the beginning of the season again I agree as well like she hasn't it was very much a slow start to the season for Matthew Diares.

48:12But I think among the answers here, I'm really impressed with Kat Rader as a player who's a rookie to come in, similar to the Jordan Dudley piece. Rookies that come into this league, you know, six goals for Rader on the year. I think she's got the mix of athleticism and awareness to be successful in this league. Houston's a team that has a lot of young players, her included, that's going to need that. Breakout player, Allie Centner, it hasn't quite worked out. Obviously, Utah to Kansas City and then to Angel City. But Chloe Lacasse, I mean, on the show today, obviously, she's been among a group of players in Utah that I think has collectively succeeded.

48:50Now successfully or statistically at top of the league, goals and assists, central to this team's attack. Surprise team, really no arguments. Like Allie said, Utah, spectacular. Again, though, racing Louisville, cannot believe how bad they've been after the way that they turned things around. So that surprised you in a sense. Yes. Still my surprise team in the wrong way. MVP, I think there's a few different shouts on Washington. If Monday hasn't gotten the playtime that I thought she would. Trinity Rodman, four of her goals game winners. She's added five assists. She's connected with Sofia Cantore.

49:22Many of these in stoppage time as well. So they're not just goals. They're goals that have really mattered and gotten Washington results in this run of form that they've been on. Shield winner, I'm not going to change my mind. Washington, I think, has all the pieces. They're deep. They're consistent. They're, I think, going to take that shield. And champion, I'm going to stick with it. I don't want to be waffling here. San Diego, I don't think, is in Washington's conversation necessarily. I know recent results. I'm talking long-term in playoffs. Or shield, sorry. But I think in the playoffs, it's a team that's shown us enough where you have to win three games.

49:54You have to be right on the day. I think we can get two different San Diego teams more than we do from a Washington in that inconsistency, but if they can get it right in the playoffs, they have the ability to do it. So I'm going to support myself from March. Yeah, I mean, with what we've seen with these two teams, it's hard to argue with you here, Jeff Trinity. It's been great to see her healthy. It's great to see her get the minutes that she so truly deserves. All right, I'm going to switch it over to my former picks now and what we've seen. Most impactful newcomer, Kiana Palacios. Great timing with the goal this weekend.

50:28Gracias, Kiana. Breakout player with Avery Patterson. What we've seen with this young Houston Dash team, Jeff, as you mentioned. Surprise team, Denver Summit in their first season ever this franchise. MVP, Luch Mila. Shield winner, I had Casey Curran. Yes, it's a little tease for what's to come. And champion, I have Washington Spirit. Will I have the same? Who knows? But like I said, great timing with Kiana Palacios and what we've seen this weekend. So my original picks then, as we just saw, as I reveal them here, and then we'll just go through what I now have. So Jeff, if you could help me. Most impactful signing, I'm still going to have my girl Kiana Palacios because of the goal that we had this weekend.

51:14Granted, I thought she would have maybe more goals or more balls in the back of the net, but I think she's done really great as to how she's contributed to this attack with Utah. With Ali Centnor out, I think we were all worried with how Utah Royals was going to look this season. Regardless, having Ali Centnor or not, we know that they were still struggling. Breakout player, I'm still going to stick with Avery Patterson because I think consistency should also be rewarded in such a long season too, especially with all the doubts constantly surrounding this Houston Dash team. Surprise team, I'm still going to stick with Denver Summit.

51:48I know I'm being a little boring, but I think I've been pleasantly surprised with what they've had in their first season. They're three points out, I think, from playoff standings right now. This is where my changes come in. I expected more from Lujmila. I think a lot of us did, goal contribution-wise. I still think she's a fabulous player for San Diego. If you could help me reveal, please. This is a hipster pick, I want to say, Jeff, a little bit. Because I think Lacey Santos really deserves the attention. And she doesn't maybe get it enough. She's so smart. She knows how to make those assists.

52:24I mean, the way that she just scores goals, you never know what she's gonna do. If it's with her head, if it's a volley, if it's, I don't know, over the back of her head, she just does it all. So I really, really think that Lacey, do I think that she could win it? Probably not, but I do think that she at least deserves the recognition. Shield winner, as I make this really big again. Shield winner, obviously I had to scrap Casey Curran. And I think we all did. I think Gotham also has been great. I had my doubts with Gotham coming in because of the lack of consistency that we saw. Maybe last season, some injuries that I know that we just got into, actually.

53:01My champion, my champion is still Washington Spirit. And I will say at the beginning of the season, I know when we get together here in studio, we get to talk before us. Man, I had Washington as my champion and they're doing so bad. And then Jose the Coyote just came in and changed everything for them. So I think Washington Spirit is still able to maintain this really strong cadence that we've seen from them. So I think my champion is the only one that's different from both of you. Yeah, both of you had San Diego. So that's it. We'll have to see. I want to come back to this, obviously, at the end of the season.

53:32I know that that's also the point of this exercise here from our producer, Beto. But we want to remind you what's coming up this weekend. Women's Sports Sundays continuing with Seattle Reign FC versus Angel City FC. Sunday, 9 p.m. Eastern on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and of course, the ESPN app.

53:54Hey, Chicago, class it up with Crocs. You know back to school is coming in fast. So why wait to find your new fave footwear? Step into a local Crocs store and step into your new look. Try it, style it, make it yours. Because the right pair doesn't just show up, it shows off. First Day Fits handled Walk out ready for whatever's next Visit your nearest Croc store today Close your eyes, exhale, feel your body relax And let go of whatever you're carrying today Well, I'm letting go of the worry that I wouldn't get my new contacts in time for this class I got them delivered free from 1-800-CONTACTS Oh my gosh, they're so fast And breathe Oh, sorry I almost couldn't breathe when I saw the discount they gave me on my first order.

54:45Oh, sorry. Namaste. Visit 1-800-CONTACTS.com today to save on your first order. 1-800-CONTACTS.

54:56A lot of action that we've been seeing in the WAF CON. Looking forward to this match of Barbara Banda vs. Temwa Chawinga. But let's focus on Chawinga here. Egypt vs. Malawi here. Second match day of the WAF CON. 35th minute and in the back of the net on the platter for Rose Katsara who scores Jeff. Yeah I mean look at the touch here before this assist. I mean that is a perfect settling touch back to goal top of 18 to set that up. This is outside of the boot too spectacular assist. Just so cheeky as Chawinga does this cross though into faith. Chinzimu has the header but follows it up, Ali, accordingly.

55:39Yeah, and it was a good first save. And then obviously was able to follow this up, make sure it hit the back of the net. Look at that acrobatic save. So athletic, but well done for putting the ball in the back of the net. Follows it perfectly. And you've heard me say this many times before, Temwa Chowinga scores. Temwa, Temwa, Temvp as they call her in Kansas City. Might be the case in the WAFCON as well. I mean, Malawi in a group with Nigeria, Zambia, Egypt, look at it. They're just going fearless into that header too with the goalie just coming full force right at her. 71st minute though, Egypt with this free kick.

56:18Iman Hassan with the goal, at least for the 3-1 rally. Yeah, I think obviously miscommunication in the back. The funding there, not touched tight. So Egypt took advantage of that and was able to put one in. Yeah, not great for the goal differential there from Malawi who's in a very tough group. Nigeria, though, facing off with Zambia here in the second match day as well. And WAPCON, Barbabanda walking onto the pitch, as we saw. And then it was 1-0 here for Asetat Oshwala. Jeff. Yeah, Nigeria bouncing back here, at least to start, because, I mean, obviously the difficulty against Malawi, you know, just splits these defenders.

56:56I think got to be better in the defending, but really spectacular to chase that down on an individual effort. Yeah, lucky bounce a little bit. Yep, a little like some of the words right out of my mouth. Yep, all right, let's take a look. I'd hear those foul on Barba Banda. She gets taken down by the last defender after a bar review. Nigeria are down to 10. A free kick, though, from Rachel Kundanaji, saved by the keeper. Good attempt, though, Ali. Yeah, great attempt, obviously, from that depth there. And once again, you see a ball being played in, redirected, and just unfortunately couldn't get the ball on target.

57:34Yeah, Nigeria win this one, 1-0. As you mentioned, a tough group there for Malawi and for Zambia with Nigeria and with Egypt. So tomorrow it's Malawi versus Zambia, 4 p.m. Eastern. It is the Banda-Chowinga matchup that we always want to see because it's, of course, always entertaining to see just two such talented players play in the NWSL and here at such a high level too internationally. Jeff, when we talk about this matchup, who do you think comes in stronger for this game? Good question. I mean, I think, you know, both players we've seen. We've seen them in the league. We've seen them in this tournament to help carry their team.

58:16Obviously, we've got the Chuinga sisters for Malawi, so a double dose there. I mean, I think the confidence of Temwa coming into this, if we're focusing on the players themselves and the players who are carrying these teams to some degree. You know, we're seeing it now at the international level. And a chance here, a real chance here, obviously, with this being the road to the World Cup, that a Malawi team that we've never seen at that stage, a huge opportunity for this team, for her. You know, I think this is really a defining game for them to get out of this group and to potentially get to Brazil next year.

58:54Yeah, two of the best and brightest of the NWSL. There's so much tension on these two, especially for NWSL fans who also very much exist in the African continent in general, too. So they obviously know who Banda and Chowinga are here, Ali. What do you think of the league's contribution still at such a high and international level like we're seeing at WAFCON? Yeah, this has been unbelievable to be able to see them on the world stage playing in WAFCON. And I think, you know, unfortunately, not many supporters could be there because of the schedule change. I do think that has an effect. But if we're talking specifically about the football, how many people are so invested in Wafkan and these specific players and how lucky we are.

59:36We get to see Barbara Banda and Chawinga be able to play in our backyards and be able to go and physically be there present and watch their incredible talent. it's been unbelievable to see them help their team just find ways to score goals and continue to perform with this high standard and you could see that I think what separates them is the emotion that these players have and I think just the confidence that they carry that leadership that they have but also the players how much they look up to them as the leaders on the team and And you can see their teammates are just willing to just claw and fight and scratch in order to get these wins.

1:00:20And to have this moment of two of the best players in our league play at this level on the world stage against each other, it's going to be, no matter what, a brilliant match. And to play alongside your sister, the Chawinga sisters up top. I've been a part of, obviously, the Muis era where they were able to play together on the same national team. and it's just an unbelievable partnership and relationship so I'm very excited to see both you know players perform but I do think there's a little bit of emotion with Malawi and I think that Chawinga is definitely carrying this team and you can see the emotion behind it so I do I do think that she might have the edge on Barbara Banda this game.

1:01:03She's used to the spotlight Chawinga since day one I will never forget the first time that we saw Temwa Chawinga in this league not only because it was a historic day for Casey Curran in general but just how fearless she was from the first minute that we were able to see her on the field coming off the bench so so impressive stuff here from Chawinga also from Barbara Bannon we know how much Orlando misses her when she is unavailable hasn't been the case at least in this season we've seen her more consistently so we've seen them consistently also in our top goals as we go there now let's see who made it for this week, Northern Super League.

1:01:40It's Jasmine Wilkinson for Ottawa Rapid versus Halifax Tides. Quite the finish there, Jeff. Diving header. A lot of time to set this up, obviously. But yeah, well done on the header. Ottawa, Northern Super League. Love Ottawa. Great city. And a great goal. It's so hard to get pace on this goal, too, because of the lofted cross. Usually if it's a more whipped in cross, you can have that redirection, but brilliant. Well done. Let's talk about Ashley Sanchez again, Ali. You have her as an MVP contender. Breakout player. Breakout player. Maybe MVP. Maybe MVP, yeah. You never know. It's just unbelievable the way that she's been able to carry North Carolina and have 10 goals on the season.

1:02:23She's sandwiched between, obviously, Barbara Banda and Temo Chawingo right now. And, I mean, she's been incredible and well done there. Beautiful goal. So Seponsewe here for Monterrey versus Tijuana with a lovely finish, Jeff. It reminds me of something we've seen in the NWSL recently to a degree, too, with that first touch. And then the toe poke gets the texture just right, right over the goalkeeper. Well done outside of the boot toe poke. First touch, though, is what sets it up. Agreed. The timing could not be better. Look at that jersey. So beautiful. Look at that celebration. So fun. Let's take it to Sweden now with Emily Braggstad for Hammerby.

1:03:06Nice finish there, Allie. Yeah, I mean, just to be able to score first time off that volley, just trying to redirect it as best you can, ends up in the back of the net. Yeah, great finish there as we travel all the way back to the Liga MX Femenil Chelsea Le for Lyon. From distance, she saw it, Jeff. to turn the step over the distance. Yeah, she had time to set this up. Beat the keeper just inside the post. This is probably the best angle for us. There it is. Ooh, keeper might've thought that was going wide there. Pull that a little bit. Hey, she has a cool picture though. Nice. Let's take it to number five.

1:03:48I'm surprised this isn't higher up because the finish from Kiana Palacios is unreal, Ali. Yeah, unbelievable. This is definitely going to be top goal of the year, at least a contender for sure. Just to have the ability and talent, a skill level to do that. A little redirection, a little flick. Let's go back to the Women's Africa Cup of Nations with Tembi. Catalina for South Africa, Jeff. You're getting all the ones from distance. There we go. From distance, top corner, near post. I mean, the cut inside onto the right foot. But, you know, this is defender tries to show her out. Nope. Inside. And look at that angle.

1:04:29Look at that tight space to fit that in there. Goalie never saw that coming. Let's take it back to the Liga MX. The femenil, Jose Lina Montoya for Chivas versus Querétaro. Nice little play there, but the finish is great. Yeah, they lose their marker back post. And obviously Montoya manages to score. Falling away from the goal, but brilliant volley side netting. Yeah, just hits it right at the perfect time. Has some fun there with the bench. Let's take it back to the end of his L4 hour number two. This is really great from Hannah Bbar. Jeff starting from not only the play that she creates, but the finish.

1:05:11Dribbling through the spine of Seattle's midfield. Separating touch and then top corner finish. Yeah, Bbar, we've seen her briefly in that U.S. picture. goals like this might get you back in it. An extra degree of difficulty. Ali, correct me if I'm wrong. Going from the sun to the shade and then still having your eye on the goal. Let's take it to number one. Belen Cruz for Cruz Azul versus Atlas. Yeah, I mean. What do you say about this? This is unbelievable. The chest it down. Yeah, the play is great. And then just to have a slight volley over the goalkeeper side netting. I mean, beautiful. And most times this ends up in row Z.

1:05:58But this time it hit the back of the net. Absolutely. From our top 10, let's take it to our parting shot with news that we saw published early this morning. Our Jeff Kazuf here telling us that the NWSL is set for its earliest ever start in 2027 due to the upcoming Women's World Cup. Jeff. Seven weeks off will make you play games in February. I mean, it's going to be interesting. We talked about a calendar flip. Either way, you're playing games in February. You're playing into November. No matter of when you're starting the season. This is a month earlier than usual. They'll be starting the season, February 11th, in L.A.

1:06:35around the Super Bowl. So some synergy there maybe. I don't know. Could be overshadowed. We'll see. But, I mean, hopefully we'll be out there. Super Bowl. End of the season opener. Maybe we'll be able to use. Super Bowl on ESPN. Hey. First time ever. Hey. Hey. It could be a double-dipping. We love Ali. I think that maybe we could use some of the Men's World Cup, you know, the enclosed facilities at the start of the year. We'll see. I don't know. Ali's got ideas. Ideas for commish. That's why you're on the show, Ali. Just brilliant ideas. Every game will be in Houston. And then. Oh, yeah, absolutely.

1:07:13The Enclosed NRG Stadium. Hey, we love NRG Stadium. We love Houston. I could show everybody around. I'm not. You know, I say you have fun. I say you have fun. I think it's great. I mean, we just saw the game at Citi Field the week of the World Cup final in the area as well. It's a playoff, the Super Bowl here. Hey, come to NWSL and then have some fun at Super Bowl because the NFL experience here for the Super Bowl fans is also set up. I think it starts on Wednesday or Thursday. I could be wrong, but it's somewhere around there. So, hey, we're throwing our hat in the ring. But yeah, it's very, very interesting indeed to have this early start and looking forward to not only the Women's World Cup, It feels like it's right around the corner.

1:07:50I know, I can't wait. But our next show is right around the corner. We will see you back here in studio next Tuesday for more Football W, Jeff, Ali. Thank you both. Bye. Bye.

1:08:13Close your eyes, exhale, feel your body relax, and let go of whatever you're carrying today. Well, I'm letting go of the worry that I wouldn't get my new contacts in time for this class. I got them delivered free from 1-800-CONTACTS. Oh my gosh, they're so fast. And breathe. Oh, sorry. I almost couldn't breathe when I saw the discount they gave me on my first order. Oh, sorry. Namaste. Visit 1-800-CONTACTS.com today to save on your first order. 1-800-CONTACTS.