Angel City Claims 2‑0 Victory Over Chicago Stars

Dominant Road Performance in Evanston

Angel City extended its winning streak to three straight games with a convincing 2‑0 win at Martin Stadium. The match drew a crowd of 6,678 fans despite lingering air‑quality concerns from Canadian wildfires. Interim head coach Leif Gunnar Smerud guided his side to another clean sheet, marking his third victory since taking over in mid‑June.

The early period saw the home side dominate possession, holding the ball 54% to Angel City’s 45% and generating two shots on target. Angel City settled quickly, however, and began to dictate play after the break. In the 56th minute, Niehues slotted home a penalty, curling a right‑footed shot into the bottom left corner.

Following the opener, Angel City’s control grew, with possession shifting to 62% in the second half while Chicago managed just 38%. The visitors created five shots on target compared with Chicago’s single attempt on goal. In the 90+8 minute, Jónsdóttir sealed the win with a close‑range right‑footed finish, set up by Prisca Chilufya.

Earlier, a potential goal by Jónsdóttir in the 86th minute was overturned by VAR after replay confirmed Chilufya was marginally offside. Goalkeeper Angelina Anderson preserved the shutout, earning her third clean sheet in succession. The win keeps Angel City perched above the playoff line, giving the club its best chance to reach the postseason since a lone appearance in 2023.

Founded in 2020, Angel City has struggled to sustain playoff runs, but the current run of victories suggests a resurgence. The squad returns to BMO Stadium on July 26 at 6:00 PM (PST) to face Racing Louisville, looking to build on the momentum from Evanston.