NWSL Challenge Cup Preview: Chicago Red Stars vs Houston Dash

Chicago Red Stars fans cheer during a game..(Photo by Daniel Bartel/ISI Photos/Getty Images).

The NWSL is back with an unexpected 2021 edition of the NWSL Challenge Cup. The Chicago Red Stars won’t have to wait very long to start as they will be playing in the first game of the tournament, a rematch of last season’s final against the Houston Dash.

While much of the league is still hesitant about re-opening stadiums, it appears that this season opener will have fans at BBVA Stadium. So let’s look at what those fans will have prepared for them this Friday night after a very busy offseason in the NWSL.

First of all, there’s a lot of players who will not be making it to this game, due to injuries…