Game: San Diego Wave vs. Club America Femenil

Where: Snapdragon Stadium, San Diego

When: Friday, July 26, 2024

Time: 7:00 p.m. PST

TV: Paramount+

The San Diego Wave will play their second game in the NWSL x Liga MX Summer Cup this Friday, July 26, against Club America Femenil at Snapdragon Stadium.

San Diego began this competition with a massive 3-1 win against Bay FC at Torero Stadium.

That win was very significant, considering that it broke a nine-game winless streak that dated back to May 12. Kennedy Wesley, Maria Sanchez, and Amirah Ali scored the goals for the Wave in that match. Of course, the Wave has some key players missing, Naomi Girma and Jaedyn Shaw, due to international duty at the Olympic Games.

Newly signed Delphine  Cascarino also represents host nation France at the Summer Olympics. Emily van Egmond and Kaitlyn Torpey are with Australia, while goalkeeper Kailen Sheridan is with Canada.

There are also some injuries, with Kyra Carusa, Hillary Beal, Kennedy Wesley, and Mya Jones all out. However, Alex Morgan did not make the Olympic roster and will be one of the key players in a potent attack that will also feature Maria Sanchez.

Emma Vanderhyden was also added as a national team replacement player with the current absences. Vanderhyden can play as a midfielder and defender and will likely be in to replace Naomi Girma.

It is fairly surprising that the Wave has not found a permanent manager and is still with interim Paul Buckle at the helm. Buckle’s record has not been good, but that recent win has the potential to generate some momentum at the club.

Club America Femenil is one of the best teams in Liga MX Femenil. It made the grand final against Monterrey but lost on penalties. Las Aguilas began the new season with a 2-1 loss to Cruz Azul and also lost 2-1 to Angel City to begin this tournament. Jana Gutierrez also came out of that game in Los Angeles with a season-ending injury.

One of the standout players for the Mexico City team is San Diego native Scarlett Camberos, who was just in NWSL with Angel City. Former Barcelona goalkeeper Sandra Panos is also a key player for America and one to keep an eye on in this match.

Club America has been one of the best teams in Liga MX Femenil since its inception, and this will be a very good test for the Mexican side as well. San Diego Wave has the massive home-field advantage and must use it to keep the positive momentum going in this tournament.

Francisco Velasco

Francisco, 26, Chula Vista/Tijuana. I have been a Padres fan all my life, did most of the series previews and recaps in the Padres’ 2016 season for EVT. Now I focus more on the local soccer scene. Tijuana Xolos, San Diego Loyal, San Diego Wave.