The Houston Dash opened the 2023 UKG NWSL Challenge Cup with a 2-0 loss against Kansas City Current at Shell Energy Stadium on Wednesday evening.
Kansas City took the lead in the 36th minute after forward Cece Kizer found the back of the net for the first goal of the night.
Kansas City extended its lead after defender Kate Del Fava connected with Kizer for the second goal of the evening.
Forward Ebony Salmon has a shot in the 64th minute that sailed just over the cross bar.
Houston had an early look in the fourth minute after forward Cameron Tucker took on a Kansas City defender one-on-one and nearly snuck the ball past the goalkeeper on the near side.
Defender Caprice Dydasco made a key save in the 29th minute to keep the score even after Kansas City’s counterattack was able to get deep in into the box, forcing goalkeeper Jane Campbell to come off her line.
Houston nearly took the lead in the 35th minute after forward Michelle Alozie took a shot on goal which forced a deflection that landed in front of midfielder Havana Solaun. Solaun’s shot was deflected out for a corner kick.
The Dash return to NWSL league play on Saturday, April 22 when the team travels to Washington to take on the Spirit. Kickoff is set for 6:00 p.m. CT and will be streamed live on Paramount+.
