In a historic event on Saturday, the Chicago Red Stars' home match at Wrigley Field broke the NWSL single-game attendance record. With 35,038 passionate fans braving the rain, the storied 110-year-old stadium witnessed a new chapter in women's soccer.
Record-Breaking Crowd at Wrigley Field
The previous attendance record of 34,130, set by the Seattle Reign during Megan Rapinoe's final match, was surpassed as Chicago enthusiasts poured into Wrigley Field, eager to see their team face Bay F.C. Although the baseball venue typically accommodates 41,649, modifications for the soccer match reduced its capacity by several thousand. Nevertheless, the stands were buzzing with energy, even as the weather added a dramatic touch.
Bay F.C.'s Triumph in the Rain
Despite the overwhelming support, the Chicago Red Stars couldn't secure a victory. Bay F.C. emerged victorious with a 2-1 win, thanks to goals from Kiki Pickett and Joelle Anderson. The Chicago fans did have a moment of joy when Penelope Hocking scored in stoppage time, but it was too late to change the outcome.
A Day of Unique Moments
The match was filled with memorable highlights. Maybelle Blair, a former pitcher for the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League's Peoria Redwings, delivered the match ball, adding a touch of history to the event. Observant fans noticed the iconic Wrigley Field flags displayed the NWSL standings instead of MLB teams, a subtle nod to the significance of the day.
Behind the Scenes at Wrigley
In the clubhouse, Mallory Pugh, a star for the Red Stars, received a surprise as her husband, Chicago Cubs star Dansby Swanson, left flowers in her locker. The connection between the Red Stars and Cubs runs deep, with Red Stars owner Laura Ricketts being part of the family that controls the Cubs.
Converting Wrigley Field for soccer was a colossal task, with a sizable grounds crew working the previous day to cover the infield and foul territory with turf. The timelapse of this transformation further highlights the dedication and effort put into creating a record-breaking event.
Reflections and Future Prospects
While the outcome of the match may have been disappointing for Chicago's fans, the event itself marks a significant milestone for the NWSL. Breaking the attendance record at such an iconic venue underscores the growing support for women's soccer and sets a high bar for future matches.
As the Chicago Red Stars look ahead, this historic day at Wrigley Field will be remembered not just for the result on the pitch, but for the incredible support and passion of the fans who filled the stands.
Editor: Emiliia Morozova
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