Chicago Red Stars Women 0-3 Washington Spirit Women – Washington Spirit Women produced one of their most complete road performances of the season, defeating Chicago Red Stars Women 3-0 in United States Women’s National Soccer League action on September 21, 2026.

A dominant first-half opener from Croix Bethune set the tone, and further goals from Trinity Rodman and Rosemonde Kouassi turned a competitive contest into a convincing away win. The Spirit’s clean sheet was just as impressive, with goalkeeper Aubrey Kingsbury commanding her area and the back line limiting Chicago’s best chances.

Match Overview

Chicago Red Stars Women began brightly in front of their home crowd, pressing Washington’s midfield and looking to spring Mallory Swanson into space. The Red Stars created an early half-chance when Swanson cut inside from the left and forced a save at the near post. But Washington weathered the opening spell and soon imposed their own rhythm.

The Spirit’s midfield trio controlled the center of the pitch, winning second balls and feeding their wide forwards in transition. Once Washington took the lead, the game opened up, and Chicago struggled to maintain possession under the Spirit’s coordinated press.

Key Moments

• 12th minute: Croix Bethune opens the scoring with a precise low finish after a flowing Washington move.
• 31st minute: Chicago’s Mallory Swanson forces a strong save from Aubrey Kingsbury.
• 58th minute: Trinity Rodman doubles the lead, driving into the box and firing across goal.
• 76th minute: Red Stars substitute tests Kingsbury with a header from a corner.
• 84th minute: Rosemonde Kouassi seals the win with a composed finish on the counterattack.

Tactical Story

Washington Spirit Women lined up with an aggressive 4-3-3, using their forward line to pin Chicago’s full-backs deep. Bethune found space between the lines repeatedly, while Rodman’s pace on the right stretched the Red Stars’ defensive shape. The third goal highlighted Washington’s counterattacking quality: a turnover in midfield, a quick vertical pass, and a clinical finish.

Chicago Red Stars Women tried to build through midfield, but Washington’s pressing traps forced rushed passes and long balls. When the Red Stars did get Swanson isolated, the Spirit doubled up effectively. The home side’s best period came early in the second half, but conceding the second goal at 58 minutes took the wind out of their comeback attempt.

Standout Players

Croix Bethune (Washington Spirit Women) was the engine of the victory, scoring the opener and creating chances throughout. Trinity Rodman added a goal and constant menace on the wing. Aubrey Kingsbury kept a well-earned clean sheet with important saves. For Chicago, Mallory Swanson was the most dangerous attacker, but she lacked support in the final third.

Season Impact and Standings Context

The three points lift Washington Spirit Women in the United States Women’s National Soccer League table and strengthen their push for a playoff berth. A 3-0 road win against a Chicago side with playoff aspirations is a significant statement, especially given the Spirit’s balance between attacking flair and defensive discipline.

Chicago Red Stars Women remain in search of consistency at home. The defeat leaves them with work to do in the standings, and they will need to turn promising spells into goals if they are to climb back into contention. For Washington, the result adds momentum to a season that is beginning to look increasingly promising.