NWSL returns Sept. 5 with 18-match fall series after successful Challenge Cup

The National Women's Soccer League will continue Sept. 5 with the opening of an 18-match fall series.

Three teams in each of the three-team regional pods will play each other and four games apiece to minimize travel.

"Building on the success of this summer's Challenge Cup, I am so excited to smartly and safely take this next step on the NWSL's journey," said NWSL commissioner Lisa Baird. "The women of the NWSL want to compete and we've certainly heard from our fans all over the world looking for more action this year."

As part of the seven-week series, there will be a televised game of the week on CBS.

Regional pods

West: OL Reign, Portland Thorns FC, Utah Royals FC

Northeast: Chicago Red Stars, Sky Blue FC, Washington Spirit

South: North Carolina Courage, Orlando Pride, Houston Dash

On July 26 in Utah, Canadian Sophie Schmidt scored on an early penalty kick and Shea Groom added a stoppage-time goal to lead Houston Dash to a 2-0 victory over the Chicago Red Stars in the Challenge Cup final.

The tournament was the NWSL's re-boot after the regular season was shut down by the coronavirus outbreak. It was the first professional team sport to return in the United States.

WATCH | Canadian Sophie Schmidt scores in Challenge Cup final:

B.C.'s Sophie Schmidt scores on penalty for early Dash lead

4 years ago

Duration 1:09

Sophie Schmidt of Abbotsford, B.C., puts Houston Dash up 1-0 on Chicago Red Stars in the 5th minute of the NWSL Challenge Cup Championship.