Playoff-Bound Wave Celebrate with Fans on Fan Appreciation Night
San Diego, CA - In front of a raucous home crowd at Snapdragon Stadium, the San Diego Wave FC clinched a playoff berth with a 3-1 victory over the Chicago Stars FC on Fan Appreciation Night.
Key Moments
The Wave got off to a fast start, with French forward Jaedyn Shaw opening the scoring in the 12th minute. The 23-year-old Shaw, who now has 9 goals on the season, continued her brilliant campaign by slotting home the opener.
Chicago responded just before halftime, as Brazilian striker Ludmila equalized with a well-taken finish to make it 1-1 going into the break. However, the Wave regained control in the second half.
Substitute Kenza Dali came off the bench to score the go-ahead goal in the 65th minute, firing past the Chicago goalkeeper to put San Diego back in front. The Wave then sealed the victory late on, with Adriana Leon netting the insurance goal in the 88th minute.
Playoff Push
With the crucial three points, the Wave have now secured their place in the MLS Cup Playoffs. Head coach Casey Stoney praised her team's resilience, saying, "The players showed tremendous character to bounce back after conceding the equalizer. This is a massive win that our loyal fans thoroughly deserve."
The Wave will look to build momentum heading into the postseason, with just one regular season match remaining against the LA Galaxy.
TL;DR
- San Diego Wave FC clinched a playoff spot with a 3-1 win over Chicago Stars FC
- Jaedyn Shaw, Kenza Dali, and Adriana Leon scored for the Wave
- The victory was celebrated by the home fans on Fan Appreciation Night
- The Wave will aim to carry this form into the MLS Cup Playoffs