Seattle Reign FC begins a three-match homestand today, taking on the Houston Dash at Lumen Field. The Reign are coming off a 1-1 draw in Kansas City, while the Dash are hoping to regroup after falling 1-0 to Bay FC a week ago. Every point matters for two bubble teams as the season winds down. Seattle currently holds the final playoff spot and a game or two in hand over most teams, but Houston is only two points behind.

The two clubs met earlier this season during a downpour in Houston for a defensive duel that ended in a scoreless draw. Both goalkeepers made 5 saves to earn their clean sheets. Seattle dominates the all-time series with an 18-6-6 record, which includes only two draws and two losses at home. The Reign have more than doubled the Dash in head-to-head goals, scoring 50 to Houston's 22. Still, the Dash are capable of scoring en masse; they had 4 different goalscorers in a 5-0 win over Chicago on August 19th.

Keys to the game

Prevent Houston's 6s from distributing
Test Jane Campbell with numbers in the box and varied shots
Stay active until the final whistle

Notes

Goalkeeper Evan O'Steen has reported to the U.S. U-20 Women's Youth National Team as they prepare for the FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup, which kicks off in Poland on September 5th. Reign teammates Ainsley McCammon and Emeri Adames will join the tournament squad following today's match.
Reign FC signed UW alum Kelsey Branson as a National Team Replacement player following a stint of training with the club as a Non-Roster Invitee.
Midfielders Jess Fishlock and Sam Meza are available for the first time since August 1st, after lingering leg injuries left them week-to-week.
Forward Ruby Hladek's contract has been extended through the end of the 2026 season.

Injuries, absences, suspensions

OUT: Lynn Biyendolo (Maternity Leave)
QUESTIONABLE: None
INTERNATIONAL DUTY: Evan O’Steen (U-20 USWNT)

Houston Dash

OUT: Malia Berkely (Maternity Leave), Evelina Duljan (Excused Absence), Makenzy Robbe (Knee - SEI), Sophie Schmidt (Ankle), Sarah Puntingam (Parental Leave)
QUESTIONABLE: None
INTERNATIONAL DUTY: None