Chicago Stars FC vs. Angel City FC: A Fun Night for Kids and Soccer Fans

What’s Happening This Saturday?

Chicago Stars FC (that’s a soccer team) have a record of 4 wins, 10 losses, and 0 ties, which gives them 12 points. They are going back to their home field, Martin Stadium, to play against Angel City FC (6 wins, 6 losses, 1 tie, 19 points). This is the second time they meet this season.

• The game is on Saturday, July 18.
• It starts at 5:30 p.m. CT (Central Time).
• You can watch it on a TV channel called ION.
• The Stars want to win again after some losses.
• Angel City wants their third win in a row.

Important Point: Kickoff is 5:30 p.m. CT on Saturday, July 18, on ION. Don’t miss it!

It’s Kids Night!

Saturday’s match is Kids Night, sponsored by a sparkling water brand called LaCroix. Martin Stadium will have extra fun for kids of all ages.

• Get a special themed patch at the gates.
• Pick up free thunder sticks and slap bracelets when you enter.
• A “soft play” area (safe play space for little kids), sponsored by Bobbie, is in the Jameson Fan Zone with free candy.
• Before the game, 11-year-old Sophia Geu sings the National Anthem.
• The After School Matters teen program called Band Techniques will perform before kickoff and at halftime.
• Other kid-friendly activities happen during the match.

Where to Watch

• Stream: ION

Previous Result

Here is what happened in their last games:

• CHI (Chicago Stars): They lost 2-0 at Boston on Friday, July 10.
• LA (Angel City): They beat San Diego 2-0 at Snapdragon Stadium on Saturday, July 11.

Sjögren at the Helm

Martin Sjögren is the new head coach (the boss of the team) for Chicago. He was announced late last year, and this is his first season.

• He is from Sweden.
• He coached Swedish teams for over 10 years and led the Norwegian Women’s National Team.
• His first NWSL win was 2-1 against Kansas City Current (the previous shield winners) on March 22.
• Assistant coach Anders Jacobson joined in August 2025 as interim (temporary) head coach before Sjögren came, helping build the team’s style.

League Leaders

Some Chicago players are doing great in the whole league:

• Sam Staab (defender): Played every minute of all 14 games (called the Ironwoman race, only 10 players left). She leads the league in clearances (89), is 5th in touches (1060), and 6th in passes (813).
• Jordyn Huitema (forward): 4th in aerial duels won (35). She leads Chicago with 4 goals.
• Ryan Connaughton (forward): Leads Chicago with 2 assists (passes that lead to goals).

Here’s the History

The Stars and Angel City have played before:

• Since 2022, Chicago is 3 wins, 4 losses, 2 ties against them.
• On March 15 (season opener), Chicago lost 4-0 to Angel City in Los Angeles.
• This weekend, Chicago wants to even the score.

Fresh Faces

Chicago got two new players:

1. Leila Ouahabi (defender from Spain):
   • Signed in June from Manchester City.
   • Available for first match this weekend.
   • Contract through 2028.
   • Occupies an international roster spot (a spot for non-U.S. players).
   • At Manchester City, she won the 2026 Women’s Super League and FA Cup, made 106 total appearances, and joined the “100 Club” (100+ appearances or goal contributions).
2. Anna Gasper (midfielder from Germany):
   • Acquired July 9 from Benfica (Portugal) for a hidden fee.
   • Signed through 2027 with option for 2028.
   • Won 4 league titles with Benfica, played in UEFA Champions League, and has 140+ career appearances with 16 goals.

Lauren Holiday Impact Award

Goalkeeper Katie Atkinson is Chicago’s nominee for the 2026 Lauren Holiday Impact Award (sponsored by Nationwide). This award honors a player for great character and help in the community.

• She will work with the Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders at Lurie Children’s Hospital in Chicago (top-ranked for kids’ cancer care).
• She was previously nominated in 2024 with Racing Louisville and worked with Norton Children’s.
• She plans to keep helping kids with cancer in Chicago.

Summary

On Saturday, July 18 at 5:30 p.m. CT, Chicago Stars FC host Angel City FC at Martin Stadium for Kids Night on ION. Expect free kids stuff, young performers, and new players Leila Ouahabi and Anna Gasper. Chicago hopes to bounce back from a loss, while Angel City seeks a third straight win. Stars coach Martin Sjögren leads the team, Sam Staab and Jordyn Huitema shine in league stats, and Katie Atkinson is up for a community service award.

FAQ

Q: How can I watch the Chicago Stars vs. Angel City game?
A: You can stream it on ION at 5:30 p.m. CT on Saturday, July 18.

Q: What is Kids Night and what free stuff do kids get?
A: It’s a themed night with patches at gates, thunder sticks, slap bracelets, a soft play area with candy, and teen band performances.

Q: Who are the new players for Chicago?
A: Leila Ouahabi (defender from Spain) and Anna Gasper (midfielder from Germany) both joined recently.

Q: What is the Lauren Holiday Impact Award?
A: It’s an NWSL award for a player who does outstanding community and charity work off the field. Katie Atkinson is Chicago’s 2026 nominee.