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Early morning on a Manhattan sidewalk, a shooting caught on surveillance video. It was an assassination style killing, and everybody saw it. A new podcast series from ABC Audio in 2020 goes inside this captivating case. I'm ABC News legal analyst Brian Buckmeyer. Listen to burden of proof Luigi Mangione, wherever you get your podcasts. It's Tuesday clear. You know what that means. Welcome to football. W. Yes, we are back to time workup champion Ali Krieger, Jeff Kuzuf. I'm Christina Alexander, a lot to break down. Of course, we have a guest in our comeback here. Chloe LaCast will join the show here just in a few minutes. Also, and not just as a sign note, got them and the U.S. national team suffer a big loss. So let's start with the Gotham news that we saw what we were on break. We can't leave for too long because bad things happen clearly. Big news here off the break. Esther Gonzalez and Gotham FC had mutually agreed to terminate her contract as a Spanish forward quote temporarily steps away from soccer to attend to personal matters in Spain. Gonzalez is coming off a season with Gotham where she was an MVP finalist and is a team's leading scorer, both this season and in history to another big loss for Gotham. Emily Saunet will miss the remainder of the NWC season after suffering a ruptured batteler tended in her left knee and Gotham's 2-2 draw against Portland last week. Neither Gotham nor the U.S. from his national team have provided a timeline on her return, although recovery from this injury and surgery varies greatly from 6 to 12 months. Let's take it to the game first. Obviously we will dive into all those topics, but Sam Kerr and Gotham here taking on Houston Dash in the 13th minute. It's Kiki Vance and always finding an opportunity out. Yeah, that's the shot obviously was saved and hit the post. Fortunately for Gotham, but what a strike early on in this match. Unfortunately for Gotham, they have someone like Jordan Dudley. She's fouled in the box. Leah Clanky here. With the foul and the penalty is given Jeff. Yeah, it's a nice cut back. I mean, she sells it a little bit, but look, body positioning is right and she gets the foul. So Kerr stepping up for the penalty and it goes just wide alley. Yeah, this was unfortunate. Obviously everybody wanted Sam Kerr to score in this moment as a welcome back. But we all know she can score from there. It just wasn't happening in that moment and then you turn around early in the second half. Guru, who has been playing brilliantly for Gotham, set her up for the assist. Well done. First time taken far post. Cheeky finished there from her 81st minute. Shelby Hogan with the big save to keep it one nil here for Gotham. But it was quite the opportunity there with Sophie Schmidt with Shelby Hogan shining bright here. Sean Harris on Kerr. What have you learned about Sam Kerr in these last few weeks of training with him? I think just the the expertise that she brings that she seems the game, you know, she has a different perspective than we've had with her before. She has high standards, high expectations for herself and the team. And she's she really someone who like push, she's pushed the team forward in the right direction. It's something that we, you know, we really pride ourselves on, you know, setting up standards. And she's definitely one of the front runners on, you know, setting the tone, setting the standard. And she's a competitor. She wants to win. She wants to win trophies and she's always said that's why she's here. So it's a really good asset for not just on the pitch, but off the pitch. That she's really good for the group. She's always mixing around different groups, like older players, younger players. And she's, you know, she's, she's a really good character, you know, in and around the, the meal rooms in her hotel. And you're on the road for so long that she, she knows how to stake this thing out of it when people are feeling down and, you know, crack a little joke here in there. So we really enjoyed having Sam and the pitch. So I know she wants to play a lot longer. And so we're building to that. She's going to, she said she wants to play a lot longer, but we're working in which she's got a building to it. Yeah, it's great to see Sam Kerr back and scoring Ali, which is what we expect from her, especially in an area where she feels so comfortable. Not only in attack, but also New York, New Jersey area in general. Yeah, she's obviously played for Sky Blue in the past and a set records in the NWSL and continues to do so. I mean, she's brilliant. She brings that expertise like Sean was speaking on and just her experience in the front line. Just her leadership, that calm confidence that she has and that she carries. I think it's really been incredible to see that transition kind of seamless for her right now getting back. I know she said it was a bit weird at the city game, you know, kind of playing in front of these fans again, wearing the Gotham Jersey. But obviously she fits right in and the style of play suits her and she's going to be brilliant now that Esther obviously had departed the club. So well done for her to get that goal early on and that second half to make up for the Miss BK. Well, let's get into the Esther Gonzalez news here. I know we really want to talk about it, Jeff, in the break when this news kind of broke. It was, well, at least they just brought in Sam Kerr when we're talking about specifically what we're seeing on the field. Because it goes without saying that we hope that everything is all right here with Esther Gonzalez. Obviously we put the human here first. But when it comes to the playing field here, how big of a loss is this for Gotham FC and how impactful Esther has been for them her whole time in Gotham? Yeah, I mean, immediately after she arrived, they went a championship. She was an MVP finalist last year. Teams leading scorer as she departs. So it's a massive loss. There's no getting over that. It doesn't seem like these two things are connected in terms of Kerr's arrival and Esther's departure. But, you know, there are two very similar players as well. So I think there was a bit of a, how do you fit these two on the field? We talked about that a little bit last month. And unintentionally, of course, as you said, hoping that everything's okay with Esther Gonzalez. But, you know, now you have very clear Sam Kerr. She's the number nine. We know that. Not necessarily a two front player. And she will now be that focal point with Esther's departure. So I think that's a like for like swap tactically on that when we get past all of the human pieces, obviously. And Kerr, I think, has needed a little bit of time to just get warm back up, right? I mean, she was coming back from that long-term injury. Obviously, did so for Chelsea. You know, then had the break. It's a little bit choppy to then come back into the end of the sale. Had to wait till mid July. I think we've seen a little bit of that, you know, even in the, maybe that Seattle game where she's got the touch that kind of is really maybe a mistouch that goes right to Rose Lavelle and works out. But, you know, now it puts a little bit more pressure, which will be used to on Sam Kerr to be that goal score to pick up the mantle of Esther being the leading score for season. And, you know, when she departed for the club at large. Yeah. I mean, this Esther lawsuit obviously was very surprising to hear the news, especially with the rhythm that we've seen from her lately. She helped in that big comeback when here for Gotham in the last few minutes, Ali. And it's tough to replace this kind of player that shows up in the most important moments for Gotham. Yeah, it's, you know, it's obvious that she's definitely got to be missed. You know, specifically talking about football and just tactically analyzing her game. She occupies both center backs because every center back is worried that, you know, they're going to have to defend Esther 1v1. And she's excellent goal scoring. She gets herself in really good positions to just create. And she gets, she can create something on nothing as well. So they're definitely going to miss that. And she was, she was also that player that defenders would pay attention to. And then, you know, that would leave space open for others to come into like a rose or a midge or a Jordan Dudley and a, and a, and a James Shaw type of player to be able to create more. So Gotham is obviously going to miss her. I obviously had the honor and pleasure of playing with her as well for a season where we won the championship. And she trained exactly like she played. She was that competitive every day in training and she just made players around her better. She was so talented, so skillful, so technical. So that piece of the game, you know, obviously the end of a cell as a whole is going to miss because, you know, having a player like her, her caliber was incredible. But then you have a Sam Kerr being able to come in, you know, these players are irreplaceable, right? You could do the best you can, but every player has different qualities. And so now you just have to be able to build those relationships up with Sam to be able to, you know, have that same, you know, attacking mentality. And we all know that she can score goals. So I don't think necessarily Gotham will have a problem with that. But it's sad to see her go. We all hope that everything is okay. On the other hand, you have an incredible leader and player like Sam Kerr is able to score goals just the same. Yeah, immense experience. So obviously with Kerr coming back after stepping away from the end WSL. And when we talk about the other loss here for Gotham, it's very different because Emily Sonnet, we know Lily Real was just sent here to Boston. Jeff, I don't want to ask the question of which loss is more concerning than the other. There are two obviously different positions and obviously both very, very important to this team. But as soon as Sonnet went down, I think we all knew that something wasn't right with how everybody was kind of reacting to it. What can Gotham do here to not feel Sonnet's loss as much, which is tough? Yeah, I think they're going to feel it, right? I mean, you know, this is a team that's been able to constantly move pieces around. I mean, you've got wide players that have played fullback. They've played wide up high. You have defensive line. You've got centerbacks that have played out wide. So they're a very fluid team. And I think that is to their benefit in these types of situations that they can adapt to this. But there's still no replacing Sonnet. I think, I mean, you look at the championship last year that slide tackled that block. Maybe the game is totally different. Gotham goes on to win. And that's probably forgotten to the Roosevelt goal, but it's a huge moment. And it's indicative anecdotally of what she does for this team. And then obviously, you know, we'll talk about it, I'm sure. But the US piece to this with the World Cup close enough that we don't know. There's an uncertainty to the return timeline. Even if you get back on the field tonight. Are you ready for it? Are you ready for a World Cup at that point if you're just coming back? So I think, you know, for Sonnet herself, this is a tough year ahead. And then Gotham, it's another piece. I mean, I feel like this is a team that's constantly moving parts. And they've been able to find success in previous years, even as they've done so. Bringing in Shaw a totally different situation. But this time, or thereabouts last year to boost the team. So I think they'll adapt. But yeah, for Sonnet personally, you know, there's the club piece. But certainly the national team piece with the World Cup. And that's a big problem for the US, too, because Naomi Gurma, we haven't seen a lot of lately. Center back depth, what is that going to look like? How do you build those relationships in the next year with an injured player that would have been part of it? So I think it's a big problem for the US. Yeah. And obviously for Gotham, as we know, Ali, but with the US Women's National Team side, as Jeff said, we obviously know that for Gotham and for the national team, it's bad. But when it comes to the national team and uncertainty there, how big of a loss is Sonnet? Yeah, it's a huge loss. Obviously she's versatile. She is playing consistently at center back. But she is versatile. And you can use her in the six. You can use her at outside back. So also just anywhere in midfield, right? And she's so valuable in that way. And that's why she is so great for the national team and so consistent there. Which is really unfortunate. To lose also that experienced leadership role, you know, the back line defensively, you know, that is just that organization is key on any team. And she, you know, she functions in the best way to get people around her to play at that level and that standard that she expects from herself. And I think that that is what is going to be missing and one of the most difficult things to replace. She holds a standard. She's obviously a vocal leader as well. You have Wesley in the fold. You have obviously Naomi Gurma. You have Tyran and Davidson. And you have some, you know, some other players who can maybe fit into that position. But honestly, Sonnet is so valuable. And I think of her more as just bringing that organization and leadership from the back line than I do anything else. And I think that is what is going to be such a big loss for both Gotham and the national team. Yeah, she's a great playmaker too. She loves coming up the back. She loves finding a goal as well and seeing her celebrate too is obviously just brings joy all around. I want to stick with you here, Ali, because we're talking about, as Theragon Salehis, at least for the foreseeable future, not coming back. Emily Sonnet, we don't know her timeline. But when it comes to this season for Gotham, will they be able to absorb both of these losses and still go back to you? I think you have to, right? You have no other choice. And Jeff made a good point. He spoke about depth, right? And Gotham, I think the championship teams, they have depth. And, you know, the teams who are consistently in the playoffs and who are battling for that championship title, they have a lot of depth. Specifically for these reasons, because it's a long season. There's injuries that you don't predict and football is a risk. And a sport is a risk and you have to be prepared for that. I do think that they're not replaceable. But there are players who can start building those relationships, new relationships, quality relationships, who have so much talent and ability to play at the same level. So I don't think they're going to have a huge issue. I think, you know, Sonnet can obviously still lead vocally, more than physically, and I think that's going to be key for Gotham. So at least Gotham still has that, you know, every single day. But yeah, I do believe that, you know, with the depth and with the quality and the talent that they have. I really think that they're going to be okay. It's just those relationships have to now just start to rebuild, so to speak. What do you think, Jeff? It's going to be tough. Yeah, I mean, the depth, I think, you know, Washington probably has more of it. We've seen some of that. We've seen a resilience from Gotham in the comeback over Seattle. The weirdest possible circumstances. We were there for city field, the four water breaks or, you know, I don't know, smoke breaks. Yeah. What do you want to call? Yeah. Oxygen, mass breaks. You know, so they've been able to get through these. They've got a coach who's on leave right now. I mean, paternity leave to be clear for anybody who's not familiar. So, I mean, there's just these moving parts and they've managed their way through them. But yeah, I think you look at the talent of Washington. I think there are teams as inconsistent as Kansas City has been that have the talent to put things together at the end of the year. So I think it'll be tough. It's not impossible. But yeah, Sonnet's in particular. I mean, Esther probably fits in this group too, but like Sonnet's a player that has always been tough to quantify her value in some ways. Because she's been a backup center back, a backup defensive midfielder, a starting fullback. But still amassed all of these caps at the U.S. level, done all these things over a decade in the end of the year. Without being like a quote unquote star in sort of a traditional way. And so now maybe with, you know, unfortunately with her absence is where you maybe start to see just how valuable she is in that sense. Yeah, and takes time with those younger players. Lily Rill, when we talked her at the beginning of the season, just spoke so highly of having Emily Sonnet in her corner and just constantly be able to learn from her. So it's interesting to the timing with real here, leaving the team that would have been quite the opportunity there for her. Although we know that she's getting her minutes as well in Boston. So surprising, definitely no doubt with these two losses that we're seeing with Gotham FC. Speaking of surprises, let's take it to the team who is in third place here at Utah Royals hosting the Portland Thorns. And the surprises just kind of continued here for Utah, but not on the great sense of the word. Sophia Wilson, Jeff here to open things up very early. Sophia Wilson, back to peak form that we've seen, obviously coming back from maternity leave over the off season. She's been phenomenal for Portland. And it didn't take long at least for Utah to lift their heads and find a way, one one here for C.C. Delser. I mean, what did first touch though to get this ball out in front of her to be able to set herself up and cheeky finish there. Just chip over the goalkeeper for our post. Welcome. So good, 42nd minute. Looked like Portland was going to come back on top of Maddie McGlin here at different plans, Jeff. Yeah, Maddie McGlin, everybody's talking about this U.S. goalkeeper race. I don't think they're putting her name in it enough because they're still a year to go. 47th minute, 2-1. Chloe Lacas finding Delser who scores again. Yeah, I mean, what a beautiful goal of the timing. The quality of this cross to pick Delser out and just that one touch finish with the outside of her left foot, brilliant goal. 60th minute, it's Wilson here again, but surprisingly misses here, Jeff. Yeah, man, you're not going to see that again, nothing from her especially. I guess everybody gets a mulligan, but this is definitely a game-changing moment. You look at the score and then what happens. What's to come here? Yeah, and Utah was just going to come back again. And again, Brecken, Mozingo there, tucks it away. I mean, Chloe Lacas, excuse me. Yeah, I mean, the service, the providing that service from wide areas has really helped Utah get ahead in this game. Check out this school, Jeff, from Gianna Palacios. How about that finish? Yeah, the celebration. There you go. She knows it. She knows it. The back heel. Yeah, I mean, we've seen a little bit of extra sauce from the Utah Royal. Oh, man, tremendo golazo salsa there from Gianna Palacios. Like I said, with the corner into the box, Kate Delfava heads it in and the comeback is complete. Utah wins it five to one. Let's take a look at what we saw from this game. Lacas here makes Utah Royal's history. She's the second player in end of his whole history to have three assists in one half joining at Malia Berkeley. She set Utah Royal single season record with 13 goal contributions that six goals and seven assists. And also became the Utah Royal's player with most assists with eight and goal contributions with a total of 19. The all time goal contributor and now a contributor to football W. Chloe Lacas joins the show. Chloe, so good to see you, especially after that big win this weekend, where you had a standout, another standout performance. Should I say with those three assists, tell us how those first few minutes of the game went, how you were reading the Portland defense and you were able to get so many assists in one game. Yeah, I think as we saw the first couple of minutes of that game weren't so great for us. But I think after that first little minute, we were able to kind of grow into the game and game momentum going our way. I think the big message after the first half was kind of just to start pumping the ball in the outside and finding crosses because we saw a little bit of vulnerability in their backline. So yeah, we were happy to be able to execute and get that win. Yeah, let's talk about how you said in the first little minute, you guys were already down one nail with that Sophia Wilson goal. But you explain it with such calmness too. What does this reaction say about Utah's mentality in general that we've been able to see this season? Yeah, that's been one of our biggest growing points, I'd say. Honestly, we've been trying to focus on our first five minutes and kind of setting the precedent, which unfortunately in that game we did not for the first five minutes. But you see a lot of growth in the way that we were able to bounce back and we were able to not get frustrated or a little bit overwhelmed from that moment because a lot of times it can really go downhill fast. So it was great to see the group kind of grow into the match and just continue to grow and grow and then be able to have fun in those last couple of minutes of the match. Yeah, you've grown into this team, this team has grown into you, but you also have new faces like Yana Palacios. We saw her with a golasso this weekend against Portland. What was your reaction when you saw that ball go in? Oh, it's so funny because truly I didn't quite see what she did because I was behind one of the defenders and then she's just having this celebration and like I see Miyabi's face covering her mouth and I'm like, okay, hold on a second, something clearly happened that I didn't see. But after the game, yeah, it was it was pretty incredible and it was great that Kiana was able to pull that off. I think it's goal of the year, there's still a couple matches, but hey, guess my vote. Chloe, I think I'm going to say goal of the year too, at least so far with what we've seen with with NWSL. I said that Rose's goal here a few weeks ago was maybe the goal of the year, but there's always competition and that's why we love the NWSL. But we've loved to see what Utah has definitely done this season. I mean, I don't think it's a surprise that I'm telling you this, Chloe, that it's been pleasantly surprising to see Utah of Royals transformation. Take us through what changed the most about this team in the off season and maybe it's not surprising for you or this team to see how well you're doing here in third place. Yeah, I think the last couple of years we've been absolutely building a foundation here. Unfortunately, that's only come off in the second part of the season, the last couple of years. Whereas this year we were able to come into the preseason kind of reflect on what we've been successful with and where we needed to work. I think our biggest transformation has been box defending and kind of our two second pressure. We've been really able to transform that and make it kind of one of our biggest strengths and it is how we end up scoring most of our goals. So that was a big one for us and we're just kind of trying to grow and make that even stronger so we can find more success. But yeah, I think everyone came into this year with an absolute open mind and wanting to learn, wanting to grow and it's paying off so far. Yeah, absolutely. We're seeing that here in numbers, especially from you and I can't say this enough. Those 19 goal contributions, you are all time now here for Utah Royals. But with your role in the attack, you're producing both as a score and a creator clearly with these numbers. Do you feel your game has evolved since coming back from injury? Yeah, I think there's definitely more joy in the way I play now. I think last year was, I think it was early August. I would step back on the pitch. And I think when you're coming back from a serious injury, it takes a little bit of time mentally to get your footing again. And I think here the coaching staff, the front office, have given me full license to do what I'm good at. And they've helped the group find success with other people's strengths as well. Sometimes you can kind of be forced into a certain formation or a certain style of play. But I think here we're working with individual strengths and we're finding ways to kind of get the best out of one another. Yeah, so we're coming up on you a year of you coming back from that ACL injury. As you said, we know that you've been very open about your journey. We saw some writing here on your social media as well. Was there a point during that rehab process when you genuinely question whether you would be able to get at this level again that you were seeing you now? Yeah, I would definitely say there was a few moments during the recovery. However, when I had the injury initially, I think the next day I was like, listen, let's just have the surgery and just kind of get to work. I think that's the mentality I've always had was just put your head down and get to work. You don't need the attention. You don't need to do it a certain way. You don't have to compare. And I kind of wanted to take my own journey and I wanted to control how that recovery was going to look like. But yeah, I think it's hard when you're in it because you lose the game you love for a little bit of time and it becomes so individual and it becomes such a mental head game. I'm going to say because you think about those things. Will you get back to where you were? Will you be stronger? Will you be weaker? So on and so on. But yeah, since being back on the pitch, I think my teammates have done a great job giving the confidence as well and just being able to be me on the pitch and doing what I do again. And yeah, it's been it's been great and hopefully it inspires others that go through that journey to also feel strong when they come back. Yeah, that's definitely great motivation. You said you lost a little bit of love for the game, not that I'm terribly surprised that you said that. But what was maybe a moment coming back that made you fall back in love with the game? I think it's just when you're so isolated, you start to reflect on why you do it and just going through, you know, before the surgery, I could barely walk and you're thinking to yourself, like, oh my gosh, like, well, I'd be able to run again. Well, I'd be able to do this and that, like, there is a life beyond soccer. So when you have a serious injury, like that, you have to really reflect and be like, okay, how much do you love doing this? Because it can take away a lot as well. But as soon as I started recovering again, I ended up feeling stronger than I felt prior to the injury. So that's something that I take great pride in and I'm so happy to have had the medical staff help me get to this point now where mentally and physically I feel good. I feel strong and I feel better than where I was prior to the injury, honestly. I mean, it's never good timing to have an injury, right? But timing wise, Chloe, we're coming up on 2027. You obviously know where I'm going with this question. We're up here on World Cup here. I know we're counting it down here in studio, but you particularly, how front of mind is this tournament when the timing is great on you coming back from this injury, really fully form and how you toss doing and also thinking about the national team? Yeah, I think it's definitely there, especially after having the men's World Cup being hosted by Canada just now as well. It definitely kind of lit a spark and I'm just looking forward to these qualifiers coming up. And I think Canada's also in a really good spot right now. We've been growing. We have Casey Stoney there now. And I think she's done a great job building trust amongst the group. So yeah, I feel healthy. I feel good. And I'm happy I get to represent Canada here soon, hopefully at the World Cup. Yeah, we're looking forward to seeing you there as well with that beautiful red jersey, but taking it back here to Utah. Obviously you just talked about your expectations with Canada at the World Cup. But we're putting Utah as a contender now at this point. We have to, Chloe, in third place and still consistently staying there the first few weeks, they're behind us. We're in the second half of the season. When it comes to championship potential, how does this group view that possibility? Yeah, we definitely don't want to get to ahead of ourselves. We have been going game by game, especially in the NWSL. You know how competitive it is. But yeah, looking at that table, we're we're proud of where we are right now, but we also still have a lot of ambition. We know that we're in the race and we can compete to be at the top of that table. So for us, it's still just keeping now a game by game mindset and continuing to grow throughout the season. And yeah, I don't think we've seen the Utah Royals at their best yet. So I hope it's soon to come. And yeah, I hope we continue to grow. And hopefully we can get a little something at the end of the season. I love that you said that we haven't seen the best of Utah yet. That little nugget just to keep us hooked. We're already hooked with what we've seen from Utah Royals this season. But I want to take it a little bit to your personal side right now, Chloe, because I asked you before we came on it. I wanted to make sure that you had the ring on, of course. Tell us, first of all, congratulations. You are engaged. These pictures are beautiful. But what is the story behind this lovely engagement? Yeah, so Darcy and I actually, we dated in high school. We were high school sweethearts. And then afterwards, as we know, the beautiful game tends to take us elsewhere. So I ended up going to school in the States. He ended up going to university away from our hometown as well. So we were apart for quite a few years. And then just before the last World Cup, actually, we ended up meeting up again. And yeah, we've been together ever since. And he ended up proposing over the holidays last year. And now, yeah, we're just kind of living in our fiance era. And we're looking forward to getting married this December in BAMP. So should be a nice winter when I put that too much. Listen, I love love. So I love that you were able to tell us that story high school sweethearts and fate just brought you back together. Maybe it'll be fate to bring a championship here for Utah. And then you can celebrate accordingly even more. I mean, I don't think that I can't think of a better year for you, Chloe. So manifesting that for you and for Utah. But for now, congratulations on the season that we've already seen from you on your engagement. And of course, for what's to come here in the 2027 World Cup. Thank you so much. Thank you very much. So great to chat with the great Chloe LaCassee here with the Utah Royals definitely on the rise. I mean, we're talking about expected goals for game at 2025 or 2026. Maybe it's not the biggest jump in the world, but when you see how many victories they have still up to this point versus the loss that we saw in 2025. And the shutouts too, that's also an interesting part here. Consistency at least in the defense. We were talking about McLean as well, but let's get into the Utah of it all. Let's get into it. Let's do it. The question is, how can we contender? No, that's not even a bigger question. But let's start with contenders to the actual championship. Are they? Yeah, I do think they are. I think they're obviously making a huge jump and transition from last season to previous seasons. All of them tied together into one. And I think they deserve to be in third place. They are a complete team. They're not, you know, now reacting to games. I think they're dictating games. They're dictating their play. They have complete performances. And they have goal scores. And they share the ball. It's really fun to watch. And it's not always pretty. As we know, football isn't always pretty, but they're getting the job done. And they're playing consistent. And they deserve to be where they are. So yes, of course. If they continue to win, they're continuing to knock out these performances and playing really good football at a high level, I think they will definitely have an opportunity to be in the playoffs and potentially in the semiser final. Jeff? Yeah. I mean, incredible. I was doing our mid-season grades for .com. And I had them at 8 plus. And I said, all right. Always room from Reuben, right? A, then they went out in 151 against Portland. And I think we'll go back to 8 plus, but they've done everything collectively as a team. I compared it in that, too, to like the lester city of a decade ago where it's like, where did this come from? But also, you're waiting for it to regress, right? You're waiting for mid-season dip to come and they fall back to 8th place, 10th place, whatever it is. And it hasn't happened. They had the slight blip coming out of the summer break. Back on track, they're still in the shield race. And they just continue to do it collectively. Chloe LaCasse is putting up really MVP contender numbers. I don't know if she'll end up winning that, but it should be in the conversation. You've got Meena Tanaka. You've got Kiana Palacios. And then the defense. I mean, Kate Delphaba has anchored that. Mani Beglien has been spectacular in goal. And the set pieces. I mean, the North Carolina game where they've got three offset pieces and a PK. And they didn't even dominate that game. And that's where you start talking about, too, you know, maybe where we were skeptical and we thought they were lucky. That's where those are how good teams get things done. Where you don't dominate the ball. You maybe don't have your best day and you still win a game and score four goals. So I think that they've shown us everything. Is it, yeah, is it a one season wonder? Maybe we've seen that with Orlando might be harsh to say, but you know what they did in that championship double year. But even if it's only a one season wonder, I think they're showing us that they can continue this into the back half of the year. And maybe go get a trophy out of it. Maybe about next year, next year. This has been incredible. One of the best stories. The best story of the season. One of the best stories I think we've seen in the league in a while. And I want to highlight Del Fava as a defender scoring a couple goals, set pieces and just getting on the end of things. Well done, just from, you know, helping lead the team from the back. It's really incredible that, you know, they're making each other look good sharing the ball really well and scoring goals. And that's what you need to do in order to win. Yeah, the press continues to be great, too. Yeah, absolutely. And I'm not surprised that producer Beto jumped in my ear. I was actually going to mention it, Beto, but I'll credit your idea. He said, hey, just like the Arsenal men with the set pieces. I mean, it's true, right? But when it comes to even set pieces, too, Ali, maybe a lot of rivals, trainers are like, oh, man. Yeah, but the only score is set pieces. Yeah, wouldn't you like to take advantage of every single set piece that you have in Utah and stewing that? No, you're absolutely right. I mean, set pieces are a part of the game. And, you know, you have to be able to, you know, be a threat on any type of set piece because it could help you win games. And they either win the games or they lose the games at the end of the day. And you definitely want to be on the side of this winning game. So that consistency on the set pieces, you could tell that they trained that day in a day out. And how successful they've been. And also on the defensive side of things, they've been really, really consistent on, you know, dealing with set pieces defensively. So the organization from back to front has been brilliant. And, yeah, set pieces are a part of the game. And if you can finish like Utah has been finishing, then that's brilliant for you. And that's why they're sitting third on the table. Yeah, good defenses and set pieces combined those both. And maybe we're talking about a championship caliber team here with Utah Royals, especially starting from the back. Like you said, with that shout out, for McLean. Let's take a look at more action over the weekend. And we saw Washington spirit here versus San Diego, Miaskanio and company. Sixty minute, though, Luchmila shot here would be save Jeff. Yeah, she gets through traffic. I mean, you know, big save. You can see the rain there on the replay. This was terrible. These are terrible conditions to play in too. So some routine saves like that actually harder on the day. Yeah, totally agree. Sofia Cantoria here getting it, but her shot would be saved here by Sandra Final Sally. Yeah, obviously a couple deflections there. Well done for the counter press for Washington to be able to provide that opportunity, but unfortunately saved. Andrea Bernadine here from distance, Jeff, and not too far from getting the goal. I try your luck. We've seen some from distance from the spirit team, some very good goals from the spirit team on the season. San Diego, though, 59th minute, almost 60th minute here would find the one nil for Lea Godfrey. I mean, well done, mother rookie. If she's been proving herself gaming and game out, she's been super consistent. And in this moment, that was pure mentality and skill at the end. Jonas, eight of all there. I think he was a little bit happy after the victory. Kimi Escanio, by the way, had a tough hit there from Rebecca Bernadine was able to walk off on her own. So hopefully everything is right there with her. And everything is more than a right here for Gotham FC. They're sitting in first place, 37 points. As we just mentioned, Utah Royals with 33, but Washington spirit there. Dropping points at home against a San Diego wave was also pressuring there in the first few standings here, actually on the table. They're in fourth place. What was Washington lacking here for you, Jeff? Well, I think it's an aggregation for me of the month that they've had. You look at, and not that any other teams have had this, right? But you look at the stretch they've had of midweek games of that game at City Field and the smoke, games on the road. They're out in Utah. So I think you look at this and you get to the end of July or, you know, first days of August here now. And this is the time in the NWSL where you get in these tough stretches. You're coming back from a break. The league has crunched games into the schedule. And again, you test the team's depth. And I think they showed us that. That win in Boston where they rotated, I think, seven players it was. And still pick up a result and deal with this road trip. And obviously, you get back home. You're on the back end of that. Interorable conditions. I think that's a piece of it, of just aggregated fatigue on a team that, you know, has also traveled more than most. We talk about this with Gotham. They have their conca caff carry over into May. So I think that this is, you know, you look at the stretch that they were on. They were 10 out of 12 victories in that stretch that to really stake their claim in the shield. I don't think it's terribly worrisome against the team that a San Diego team that is, you know, similarly can be a contender. Yeah. So it shouldn't be red alarms all over the place. But the reality is, is that San Diego maybe took advantage of Washington's fatigue here, Ali? Yeah. I think there's obviously a few factors, right? The conditions are difficult. I used to love playing in the rain because the ball moves a lot faster. But it can disrupt here and there. Both teams obviously have to play. But San Diego, yeah, they traveled, they traveled far as well to, to play at Audi field. Rowdy Audi, I don't know if it was that's Rowdy that day. So maybe Washington didn't have that 12th, you know, supporter as they usually do every other weekend, but it's true. The travel, you know, is really difficult, you know, playing three-week, three games in one week. That's also, you know, really demanding for a lot of players. I just think that in these moments, when you are maybe a little bit more tired than normal, then you have to actually do the little things, right? I think the little details really matter. So that's completing passes from A to B. That's, you know, doing the work early, getting in the right position, you know, anticipating a place a little bit earlier than you would, getting into tackles, having that mentality and that belief. And I don't necessarily think they were poor in those categories on the day. They just didn't get the little details right. And I think on the goal you see, that was pure mentality, that was pure physicality, that was just the willingness to want to put the ball in the back of the net. And, you know, Bernal there, I think that was tough getting kind of, you know, beat to the ball and then shoved off the ball a little bit. But those little moments are going to change the trajectory of the season for a lot of these teams. Because you are playing against the best of the best, San Diego and Washington spirit, the two of the best teams. So, you know, that happens. But on the day, you know, San Diego was just the better team and they finished their chance. Yeah, if we're talking about this as the potential championship game here in DC, that can't happen for Washington. The basics truly become the most important part of the game. Ali, as you just said, and Beto, our producer will correct me if I'm wrong. But I don't think it rains that often in San Diego. So, they were able to play in the rain. No excuses, play like a champion, which is exactly what San Diego did. We're going to take a trip down memory lane because we're over halfway done with this NWSL season. And we're just going to remember what we thought before the season even started with our predictions. We're going to dive right into our 2026 NWSL season predictions. And Crystal, newcomer. I'm starting this off. Yes, yes you are. Who are? Okay. MVP, gotta go with Chihuenga. Well, you think of an MVP, you think of, if you remove this player from the team, she's such an incredible player that I think at her full healthy self, running away with the MVP award. Now, my surprise team might come as a bit surprised to you all, but look, Caroline, the courage. And I say this sounds like a new manager in Matt Flynn, you know, Kevin Sheridan, Ali Schlagel, adding to the plays they already have there. So, I tried to spice it up a little bit here. MVP, I just enjoy watching her play, Manaka, midfielder of the year last year in NWSL. She has so much quality and so much potential. And I'm encouraged to see what North Carolina can do, and she has a big part of that. Shield winner, I have to say that. I think I can see it. Transparency. Surprise team, again, relative. I say racing Louisville here because I don't think we talk about them. I feel like they're a team that is just going to hang around. They're a team that nobody's going to really care about in some way. Sorry, racing Louisville, right? But they take, they love that, like they want to be doubted. Most impactful newcomer, Gianna Palacios, chew a Utah Royal team that created their best player. And right now, she could really be that star. I think it's Washington's time. This is a team that has been through it all. And they know what it's like to be just right there with the title in Rachel. I think this definitely can be their season. Do you believe in second chances? I do. But the season isn't over yet. I mean, listen, being wrong is fine. But again, we have an opportunity to stick or to switch. So we're going to go over those picks again, Ali. We're going to start with your pick. So most impactful newcomer, Amanda Guterres, breakout player, Jimmy St Joseph, your surprise team was Angel City, your MVP, Manaka Matsukubo. How about your shield winner in Gotham? So not very surprised there in your champion. Washington spirit. So things have changed. A lot has changed your mind in your heart. A lot has changed in my mind and in my heart. Surprisingly, right? I don't necessarily think that Guterres hasn't been an impact, right? She has caused. She's been a threat. She has caused some problems for defenses within the league. But I do think there's been a more impactful signing, which is Jordan Dudley for me. There we go. Yes. For Gotham FC, she's been incredible. She's earned her moments. She's gotten assists. She's gotten goals. She's been able to prove why she deserves to be starting now for Gotham. And she wasn't necessarily doing that at the beginning of the season. So now she's gotten minutes. She's proven herself. So that is why Jordan is definitely on the list for the signing. Breakout player for me is Ashley Sanchez. I think she's been incredible for North Carolina. She's been so impactful in the front line. She's been leading the front line. She's been scoring goals. She's been applying assists and really creating some chances for North Carolina to lead and win. And now they're in the top eight. So well done to her and getting her team back to where they belong. It's my surprise team. Yeah. Obviously. I think all of us can agree that Utah has now in third place. They've been incredible. I think it's that belief now in the team that we're seeing. It's not necessarily how talented they have been. But that belief that you can see, that now they're a complete team compared to a lot of other teams in the league. MVP for me is definitely changed because obviously Menaka, unfortunately. Unfortunately for her, but unfortunately for us. She's gone to Chelsea on a five-year deal. So rightfully so she's going to be incredible for them. But I think Rose LaValle, especially in these narrow games that we've seen. She's been coming up clutch. Obviously when she's fit, she's healthy. We could tell she's the best midfielder in the world. I think she is incredible. She's been keeping Gotham at the top of the table. And my shield winner. Oh, just made that. Now is in between, I think. Because obviously you have DC. You have San Diego. And you have Gotham all competing for this championship. We're going to just go right down. Oh, sorry. Shield winner. I skipped over that. Gotham, that didn't change for me. Up to the champion. I think San Diego has proven themselves. Because they've beaten both Gotham and Washington. And I think that they have a really good chance coming into this playoff. Okay. Yeah. Interesting changes. I have to agree with Rose LaValle and not only because it has to be a natural switch here for you. But she is truly impactful. That MVP, that problem solver, especially when they're deep. That city feel goal is competing with the Guiana Palacio's goal, as I mentioned, to Chloe here. All right. So we are going to go now with Jeff's former predictions. Most impactful newcomer, agreeing with Ali here with Amanda Gutierrez, break up player, and Ali Centnor, which we can now switch that little shield there behind her. Surprise team, racing, low of all. There's an argument to that though. We can dive into that here in a second. MVP gift Monday, shield winner Washington spirit, and champion San Diego waves. The shield and champion probably not that far off. Your first impressions, Jeff here, and with things that have changed, Ali Centnor are going to another team for starters. Yeah. I mean, look, I hope not to be wrong twice for starters. I guess you're right. Surprise team, certainly racing, Louisville, a surprise in all the wrong ways, I would say. I thought they'd be better than they were, especially after last year. But I mean, starting with most impactful signing, and agreeing with Ali at the beginning of the season, again, I agree as well. Like she hasn't, it was very much a slow start to the season for Matt Gutierrez, but I think among the answers here, I'm really impressed with Cat Raider as a player who's a rookie to come in, similar to the Jordan Dudley piece. Rookies that come into this league, you know, six goals for Raider on the year. I think she's got the mix of athleticism and awareness to be successful in this league. Houston's a team that has a lot of young players, her included, and it's going to need that. Breakout player, Ali sent her, it hasn't quite worked out obviously. Utah to Kansas City, and then to Angel City, but Chloe Lukas, I mean, on the show today, obviously. She's been among a group of players in Utah that I think is collectively succeeded. Now, successfully or statistically, a top-of-the-lead goals end assist. Yeah. Central to this team's attack, surprise team, really no arguments. Like Ali said, Utah, spectacular. Again, though, racing Louisville cannot believe how bad they've been after the waves. So that surprised you in the round. Yes. Still my surprise team in the wrong way. MVP, I think there's a few different shouts on Washington. Yeah. Gift Monday hasn't gotten the playtime that I thought she would. Trinity Rodman, four of her goals, game winner, she's added five assists, she's connected with Sophia Cantore. Many of these in stoppage time as well, so they're not just goals, they're goals that have really mattered and gotten Washington results in this run of form that they've been on. Shield winner, I'm not going to change my mind. Washington, I think, has all the pieces, they're deep, they're consistent. They're, I think, going to take that shield. And champion, I'm going to stick with it. I don't want to be wafting here. San Diego, I don't think, is in Washington's conversation necessarily. I know recent results. I'm talking long-term and playoffs or shields, sorry. But I think in the playoffs, it's a team that's shown us enough where you have to win three games. You have to be right on the day. I think we can get two different San Diego teams more than we do from a Washington in that inconsistency, but if they can get it right in the playoffs, they have the ability to do it, so I'm going to support myself from much. Yeah, I mean, with what we've seen with these two teams, it's hard to argue with you here, Jeff Trinity. It's been great to see you're healthy, it's great to see you're the minute. Get the minutes that she's so truly deserves. All right. I'm going to switch it over to my former picks now on what we've seen. The most impactful newcomer, Yana Palacios, great timing with the goal this weekend. Yana, break out player with Avery Patterson, what we've seen with this young Houston dash team. Jeff, as you mentioned, surprise team, Denver Summit in their first season ever this franchise. MVP, Luchmila, shield winner. I had Casey Current. Yes, it's a little tease for what's to come in champion. I have Washington spirit. Well, I have the same who knows. But like I said, great timing with Yana Palacios and what we've seen this weekend. So my original picks, then, as we just saw as I reveal them here, and then we'll just go through what I now have. So Jeff, if you could help me, most impactful signing, I'm still going to have my girl Yana Palacios because of the goal that we had this weekend. Granted, I thought she would have maybe more goals or more balls in the back of the net, but I think she's done really great as to how she's contributed to this attack with Utah, with Allie Centner out. I think we're all worried with how Utah Royals was going to look this season regardless, having Allie Centner or not, we know that they were still struggling. Break out player, I'm still going to stick with Avery Patterson because I think consistency should also be rewarded in such a long season too, especially with all the doubts constantly surrounding this Houston dash team. Surprise team, I'm still going to stick with Denver Summit. I know I'm being a little boring, but I think I've been pleasantly surprised with what they've had in their first season. There are three points out, I think, from playoff standings right now. This is where my change has come in. I expected more from Luchmila. I think a lot of us did goal contribution-wise. I still think she's a fabulous player for San Diego, if you could help me reveal please. This is a hipster pick. I want to say Jeff a little bit because I think Lacey Centner really deserves the attention and she doesn't maybe get it enough. She's so smart. She knows how to make those assists. I mean, the way that she just scores goals, you never know what she's going to do if it's with her head, if it's a volley, if it's, I don't know, the back of her head, she just does it all. So I really, really think that Lacey, do I think that she could win it? Probably not, but I do think that she at least deserves a recognition. Shield winner, as I make this really big again. Shield winner. Obviously, I had to scrap Casey Kern. I think we all did. I think Gotham also has been great. I had my doubts with Gotham coming in because of the lack of consensus to see that we saw maybe last season, some injuries that I know that we just got into actually my champion. My champion is still Washington spirit and I will say at the beginning of the season I know that when we get together here in studio, we get to talk before us. And I had Washington as my champion and they're doing so bad. And then Jose the coyote just came in and changed everything for them. So I think Washington spirit is still able to maintain this really strong cadence that we've seen from them. So I think my champion is the only one that's different. Both of you, yeah, both of you had San Diego. So that's it. We'll have to see. I want to come back to this obviously at the end of the season. I know that that's also the point of this exercise here from our producer Beto. But we want to remind you what's coming up this weekend. Women sports Sundays continuing with Seattle Rain F.C. First Angel City FC Sunday 9 p.m. Eastern on ESPN, ESPN, the port of this. And of course, the ESPN app. A lot of action that we've been seeing in the Wafcon. Looking forward to this match up, Barbara Banda, verse 10. What? Chawinga. But let's focus on Chawinga here. Egypt, verse Malawi here. Second match day of the Wafcon 35th minute. And in the back of the net on the platter for Rose Cazera who scores Jeff. Yeah, I mean, look at the touch here before this assist. I mean, that is a perfect settling touch back to goal top 18 to set that up. This is outside of the boot too. Spectacular. It's just. Just so jiki as Chawinga does this cross, though, into faith. Jinzimu has the header, but follows it up, Ali, accordingly. Yeah, and it was a good first save. And then obviously was able to follow this up. Make sure it hit the back of the net. Look at that after back save. So athletic, but well done. Preparing the ball in the back of the net. Follows it perfectly. And you've heard me say this many times before. Tim, whatcha wing us scores? Tim, what? Tim, what? Tim VP, as they call her. Tim VP. It might be the case in the Wafcon as well. I mean, Malawi in a group with Nigeria, Zambia, Egypt. Look at it. I'm just going fearless into that header too. With the goalie just coming full force right out of her. 71st minute, though, Egypt with this free kick. I'm on Hassan with the goal, at least for the three one, Ali. Yeah, I think obviously miscommunication in the back. The funding there, not touch tight. Egypt took advantage of that. I was able to put one in. Yeah, not great for the goal differential there. From Malawi who's in a very tough group. They're facing off with Zambia here in the second match day as well. In Wafcon. Barbara Banda walking onto the pitch as we saw. And then it was one nil here for Asitat Oshwala. Jeff. And Nigeria bouncing back here, at least to start because, I mean, obviously the difficulty against Malawi, you know, just splits these defenders. I think got to be better in the defending, but really spectacular to chase that down on an individual effort. Yeah, lovely. Lucky bounce a little bit. Yeah, yeah. I'm going to get a word right in my mouth. Yeah, all right. Let's take a look. I hear those foul on Barbara Banda. She gets taken down by the last defender after a bar review. Nigeria are down to 10. A free kick, though, from Rachel Kundinaji saved by the keeper. Good attempt, though, Ali. Yeah, great attempt. Obviously from that depth there. And once again, you see a ball being played in. Redirected and just, unfortunately, couldn't get the ball on target. Yeah, Nigeria win this one. A 1-0. As you mentioned, a tough group there for Malawi and for Zambia with Nigeria and with Egypt. So tomorrow it's Malawi versus Zambia 4 p.m. Eastern. It is the Banda Chowinga matchup that we always want to see because it's, of course, always entertaining to see just two such talented players play in the end of the cell. We're at such a high level, too, internationally, Jeff. When we talk about this matchup, who do you think comes in stronger for this game? Oh, good question. I mean, I think, you know, both players we've seen. We've seen them in the league. We've seen them in this tournament to help carry their team. Obviously, we've got the Chowinga sisters from Malawi, so a double dose there. I mean, I think the confidence of TEMWA coming into this, if we're focusing on the players themselves and the players who are carrying these teams to some degree, you know, we're seeing it now at the international level. And a chance here, a real chance here, obviously, with this being the road to the World Cup, that I'm a Malawi team that we've never seen at that stage. A huge opportunity for this team, for her. You know, I think this is really a defining game for them to get out of this group and to potentially get to Brazil next year. Yeah, two of the best and brightest of the NWSL. There's so much tension on these two, especially for NWSL fans, who also very much exist in the African continent in general, too. So they obviously know who Banda and Chowinga are here, Ali. What do you think of the league's contribution still at such a high international level like we're seeing at Waf Khan? Yes. It's been unbelievable to be able to see them on the world stage playing in Waf Khan. I think, you know, unfortunately, not many supporters could be there because of the schedule change. I do think that has an effect. But if we're talking specifically about the football, how many people are so invested in Waf Khan and these specific players and how lucky we are, weekend and weekend to see Barbara Banda and Chowinga be able to play in our backyards and be able to go and physically be there present and watch their incredible talent. It's been unbelievable to see them help their team just find ways to score goals and continue to perform with this high standard. And you could see that I think what separates them is the emotion that these players have. And I think just the confidence that they carry, that leadership that they have, but also the players, how much they look up to them as the leaders on the team. And you could see their teammates are just willing to just claw and fight and scratch in order to get these wins. And to have this moment of two of the best players in our league play at this level in the world stage against each other, it's going to be no matter what, a brilliant match. And to play alongside your sister, the Chowinga sister is up top. I've been a part of, obviously, the Mewis era where they were able to play together on the same national team. And it's just an unbelievable partnership and relationship. So I'm very excited to see both, you know, players perform. But I do think there's a little bit of emotion with Malawi. And I think that Chowinga is definitely carrying this team. And you could see the emotion behind it. So I do think that she might have the edge on Barbara Banda this game. She's used to the spot, right? Chowinga since day one, I will never forget the first time that we saw Tamwa Chowinga in this league, not only because it was a historic day for Casey Kern in general, but just how fearless she was from the first minute that we were able to see her on the field coming off the bench. So impressive stuff here from Chowinga also from Barbara Banda. We know how much Orlando misses her when she is unavailable. Hasn't been the case at least in this season. We've seen her more consistently. So we've seen them consistently also in our top goals as we go there now. Let's see who made it for this week, Northern Super League. It's Jasmine Wilkinson for Ottawa Rapid versus Halifax Tides. Quite the finish there, Jeff. Diving header. A lot of time to set this up, obviously. But yeah, well done on the header. Ottawa, Northern Super League, love Ottawa. Great city. And a great goal. It's so hard to get pace on this goal, too, because of the lofted cross. Usually if it's a more whipped-in cross, you can have that redirection, but brilliant. Well done. Let's talk about Ashley Sanchez again, Ali. You have her as an MVP contender. Breakout player. Breakout player. Breakout player. Thank you. Maybe MVP. Yeah. You never know. Just unbelievable. The way that she's been able to carry North Carolina. And you have 10 goals on the season. She's sandwiched between, obviously, Barbara Banda and Tanwasha Wingo right now. And I mean, she's been incredible and well done there. Beautiful goal. Step on Sehway here for Monterey versus Diijuana. What they lovely finish, Jeff. It reminds me of some we've seen in the end of itself. Recently to a degree, too, with that first touch. And then the toe poke gets the texture just right. Mm. Right over the goalkeeper. Well done. Outside of the boot, toe poke. First touch, though, is what sets it up. Agreed. The timing could not be better. Look at that jersey. It's so beautiful. Look at that celebration. It's so fun. Let's take it to Sweden now with Emily Bradstad for Hammurby. Nice finish there, Ali. Yeah. I mean, just just be able to score first time off that volley. Just trying to redirect it as best she can and stuff in the back of the map. Yeah, great finish there as we travel all the way back to the Niga in the East. It's a feminine Chelsea late for Lyon. From distance, she saw it, Jeff. To turn the step over the distance. Yeah, she had time to set this up. Beat the keeper just inside the post. This is probably the best angle for us. There it is. Ooh, keep your mind. I thought that was going wide there. Yeah, a little bit. Hey, physical picture, though. Let's take it to number five. Surprise. This isn't higher up because the finish from Giana Palacios is unreal, Ali. Yeah. I, uh, unbelievable. And this is definitely going to be top goal of the year. At least a contender, for sure. Just to have the ability and talent skill level to do that. A little redirection, little flick. Let's go back to the women's Africa Cup of Nations with a Timby Katlana for South Africa, Jeff. You're getting all the ones from distance. There we go, from distance, top corner. Near post, I mean, the cut inside onto the right foot. You know, this is the fender tries to show her out. Nope. Inside, and look at that angle. So good. Look at that tight space to fit that in there. Golly never saw that coming. Let's take it back to the Liga I make. He's a feminine. He goes to Rina Montoya for Chiwaz at Burst. Get it, that'll. Nice little play there, but the finish is great. Yeah, they lose their marker back post. And obviously, Montoya manages the score. Falling away from the goal. Brilliant volley of side-money. Yeah, it just hits it right at the perfect time. Has some fun there with the bench. Let's take it back to the end of yourself for our number two. This is really great from Hannah B. Bar. Jeff, starting from not only the play that she creates, but the finish. Griblin through the spine of Seattle's midfield, separating touch, and then top corner finish. B. Bar that we've seen her briefly in that U.S. picture. Goals like this. Like, get you back in it. An extra degree of difficulty. Ali correct me if I'm wrong. Going from the sun to the shade. And then still having your eye on the goal. Let's take it to number one. Belén Cruz, for Cruz Azul versus Atlas. Yeah, I mean, what do you say about this? This is unbelievable. Chest it down. Yeah, the play is great. And then just to have a slight volley over the goalkeeper. Side netting. I mean, beautiful. And most times, this ends up in Rosie. At this time. Yes. Hit the back of the net. Absolutely. From our top 10. Let's take it to our parting shot with news that we saw. Published early this morning. Our Jeff at Kazoof. You're telling us that the end of this all is set for its earliest ever starting in February of 2021 due to the upcoming women's World Cup Jeff. Seven weeks off. We'll make you play games in February. I mean, it's going to be interesting. We talked about a calendar flip either way. You're playing games in February. You're playing into November. Matter of when you're starting the season. This is a month earlier than usual. They'll be starting the season. February 11th. In LA around the Super Bowl. So some synergy there maybe. I don't know. Could be overshadowed. We'll see. But I mean, hopefully we'll be out there. Super Bowl. End of this all season opener. Maybe we'll be able to see. Super Bowl on ESPN. Hey. Hey. Hey. Yeah. Double defeat. We love it. I think that maybe we could use some of the men's row cups, you know, and closed facilities that started a year. We'll see. Well, I don't know. He's going out there. Ideas for commercial. Ideas for commercial. Wire on the show. Ali. It's brilliant ideas. I mean, you will be a Houston. And then. Oh, yeah. Absolutely. It's an energy stadium. Hey. We love the energy stadium. We love Houston. I can show everybody around. Yeah. Yeah. I think it's great. I mean, we just saw the game at City Field. The week of the World Cup Final in the area as well. It's a playoff to Super Bowl here. Hey. Come to NWSL and then have some fun at Super Bowl because the NFL experience here for the Super Bowl fans is also set up. I think it starts on Wednesday or Thursday. I could be wrong. But it's somewhere around there. Hey, we're throwing our hat in the ring. But yeah, it's very, very interesting indeed to have this early start. And looking forward to not only the Women's World Cup. It feels like it's right around the corner. But our next show is right around the corner. We will see you back here in studio next Tuesday for more football W. Jeff Ali. Thank you. Bye. Bye. Bye. Bye.
