The NWSL Challenge Cup wrapped up on Sunday with the Houston Dash taking home the inaugural trophy thanks to a 2-0 victory over the Chicago Red Stars. It wasn’t a result anyone predicted going into the tournament (Houston was at one point +2000 to win it all), but for the first time since 2017 a new team took home a trophy in the NWSL (or the first the first time since 2014 if you consider the NC Courage and WNY Flash to be one continuous club.)
The tournament was a great success – the bubble remained intact, TV ratings were outstanding, and the league even announced further expansion and growth plans during the event.