BRIDGEVIEW, Ill. — In a spirited season finale on October 15, 2023, Miyabi Moriya scored her first goal in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), but Angel City FC ultimately lost 2-1 to the Chicago Red Stars at SeatGeek Stadium. Moriya found the net in the 23rd minute, giving Angel City an early advantage following a precise assist from Nealy Martin.
The match took a turn shortly after halftime when Jameese Joseph equalized for Chicago in the 49th minute. Joseph executed a well-timed one-two play with Nadia Gomes before striking the ball past the Angel City goalkeeper. The decisive moment came in stoppage time when Ally Schlegel scored the winning goal for the Red Stars in the 98th minute, sealing Angel City’s fate.
Angel City’s roster featured notable players in their final NWSL appearances, including Christen Press, who entered the match in the 59th minute, and Ali Riley, who came on during stoppage time. The team finished the season with a record of 7 wins, 6 draws, and 13 losses, while Chicago concluded at the bottom of the league standings.
Despite the loss, Angel City’s Riley Tiernan stood out as a promising rookie, finishing the season with eight goals, making her the top scorer among 2025 rookies. She faces competition for the coveted Rookie of the Year award from players like Gotham defender Lilly Reale.
The match not only marked the end of the season but also served as an emotional farewell for two key players. Angel City honored Press and Riley, who both significantly contributed to the team’s journey this year.
In a press statement, Coach Freya Coombe expressed gratitude for the dedication shown by her players throughout the challenging season. Looking ahead, Angel City will aim to regroup and strategize for the upcoming season, hoping to build on the lessons learned and the talent showcased, particularly by their younger players.
As the NWSL season concludes, teams will now focus on player development and recruitment strategies, looking towards a competitive future in women’s soccer.
