The Chicago Red Stars are back home at Toyota Park this weekend where they will host the resurgent Seattle Reign FC. Saturday’s themed #SheInspiresMe night will find the Red Stars holding on to 4th place in the NWSL standings and the last playoff spot, four points behind 2nd place Seattle.

Can Chicago keep playing inspired soccer? The Red Stars are coming off a 3-1 victory against Sky Blue FC after a tough 3 match week. Sam Kerr bagged a hat trick, with Yuki Nagasato and Alyssa Mautz picking up the assists against New Jersey. Chicago will want to try and keep the momentum going against a 2nd place Seattle Reign team who are coming off a midweek match against Utah Royals FC.

Where We Last Saw Them

Chicago and Seattle faced off back on May 19th. While both squads found opportunities on net, it was a battle of Goal Keepers as both Alyssa Naeher and Lydia Williams came up with big saves on several attempts on the day. Despite both teams finding time and space in the final third, the match ended in a 0-0 draw at Memorial Stadium.

Starting Lineup We’d Like To See

Since the last time these 2 teams played each other, Chicago’s roster and Starting XI has changed match to match. With some players back from injuries, Seattle could see some Red Stars players for the first time this season. We’d like to see Vanessa DiBernardo and Casey Short help set the tone in this one.

Keys To The Match

Who is controlling the midfield? With players like Beverly Yanez, Jess Fishlock, and Allie Long navigating things for Seattle - Chicago’s midfield has had to do some shuffling over the last several weeks. Barring any huge set backs, Morgan Brian needs to continue stringing together strong minutes against strong teams.

Marked MVP: After last week, Sam Kerr has league leading 8 goals to along with her 2 assists on the season. The reigning NWSL MVP has spent a handful of games typically with a defender on her hip. After a hat trick last weekend, expect this match to be no different. Offense will have to be a collective team effort and much more creative this match.

Players To Watch

Seattle Reign: Jess Fishlock. After spending some time on the injury report for Seattle, Fishlock had a big midweek game against Utah Royals FC. The Welsch native had a large role in running the midfield, and assisted in shutting down the Royals offense.

Chicago Red Stars: Yuki Nagasato is the shark boss and you all get to pay tribute to her and her foot soldiers on game days.

How To Watch

Kickoff: Saturday, July 14, at 7:00 pm CT at Toyota Park in Bridgeview, IL

Stream: go90 app

Final Thoughts

Who do you want to see start against Seattle? Do you think Sam Kerr will continue her scoring streak? What Inspires you about the Red Stars? Leave your thoughts in the comments below!