NWSL expansion clubs Angel City FC and San Diego Wave FC made their debuts in the Challenge Cup on Saturday, playing to a 1-1 draw at Titan Stadium.
Angel City came out firing at home, as Christen Press tested San Diego goalkeeper Kailen Sheridan early.
đ±đ±đ±@Kailen_Sheridan stopping (literally) the @ChristenPress opener đ„ pic.twitter.com/WCbJx4d47z
â National Womenâs Soccer League (@NWSL) March 20, 2022
After Angel Cityâs near-miss, San Diego began to play their way into the game, creating solid chances in the opening 45 minutes.
After the half, Angel City broke the 0-0 deadlock, with Savannah McCaskill scoring the Los Angeles clubâs first-ever goal. McCaskill found an opening in San Diegoâs defense with a run into the box and headed in Ali Rileyâs lofted cross for the 1-0 lead.
History maker: @smccaskill_7 đ
â National Womenâs Soccer League (@NWSL) March 20, 2022
The first goal in @weareangelcity history â€”ïž pic.twitter.com/1szWJuuHBs
San Diego finally found the back of the net in the 81st minute when Kaleigh Riehl, who subbed in for Abby Dahlkemper at the half, tapped in a Wave corner kick for the clubâs inaugural goal.
Riehl Good Timing â°@sandiegowavefc have their first goal in club history đ pic.twitter.com/bNnl7pYdrF
â National Womenâs Soccer League (@NWSL) March 20, 2022
Each club returns to action on Saturday, with Angel City hosting OL Reign and San Diego playing the Portland Thorns at home.