Match Preview, News, and Thread: Portland Thorns at Chicago Stars

The Portland Thorns have overtaken first place in the NWSL table (5-1-1) with their 2-0 midweek victory over San Diego Wave.

Now, they head on the road to take on the #14 Chicago Stars (2-5-0) at Martin Stadium.

Projected Starting XI

With the third match in seven days, expect head coach Robert Vilahamn to rotate a few more players into the lineup this week.

He made changes to the backline and will likely do so again.

As of now, the frontline and midfield have not been changed, but could a player like Mimi Alidou earn a start? Absolutely.

Chicago Stars By the Numbers

Both of Chicago's wins on the season have come at home (all four goals scored on the season have come at Martin Stadium)
They rank last in xG (4.7) and xG conceded (15.4)
The Stars have only scored four goals on the season, ahead of just Boston Legacy FC who have three goals.
Entering matchweek six, they were tied with KC Current and Racing Louisville for most goals conceded with 13
In their five losses, they've scored zero total goals.

Players to Watch
Windy City

Jordyn Huitema: The CANWNT forward leads the Chicago Stars attack with two goals.
Ryan Gareis: The playmaker has both of the team's assists on the season.
Sam Staab: She is one of the best defenders and top long-ball passers in the league. The center back also leads the team in accurate passes and minutes.

Rose City

Sophia Wilson: The USWNT forward has now scored in back-to-back matches and looks primed to go on a scoring streak.
Mackenzie "Macca" Arnold: The Matilda has 10 saves in her last two matches and already claimed two clean sheets in just four starts.
The 'Core' of Olivia Moultrie, Reilyn Turner, and Pietra Tordin: The trio have been dominant this season, accounting for nine goals and four assists.
Robert Vilahamn: "Jessie Fleming is probably the best central midfielder in the league these 7 games, if you ask me."

What to Expect

Both teams are in the bottom tier of possession, but expect Portland Thorns to have the bulk of the possession in this match. When they do not have the ball, the team will look to suffocate the Chicago Stars with their press.

On paper and by almost every conceivable metric, the visitors are the better side. However, the home side has played much better at Martin Field.

Even on short rest, the front four of Wilson, Tordin, Turner, and Moultrie have found a way to make an impact, every single match. They've also accounted for 11 of the club's 12 goals which leads the NWSL.

The Thorns backline will surely have Gareis and Huitema as their primary focuses. If they're able to keep those two at bay, it'll be very difficult for the Stars to generate premium chances. Also, Portland leads the league in clearances and is second in clean sheets with four.

Recent Portland Thorns News

She's Back!

The club's all-time leading shutouts leader Bella Bixby, signed a one-year contract extension through 2027.

“Bella has demonstrated exceptional leadership and professionalism on and off the pitch over the course of her career with the Thorns,” President and General Manager of Soccer Operations Jeff Agoos said. “Her veteran presence strengthens our Club’s culture and identity, and we look forward to continuing to support her rehabilitation ahead of the 2027 NWSL season.”

Goalkeeper Coach Changes

On Thursday, the club announced that interim goalkeeper coach Amrik Hare would be departing the club. He joined the team alongside Sarah Lowdon for the 2026 preseason and the start of the regular season.

He helped guide Morgan Messner and Mackenzie Arnold to strong starts on the season.

On Saturday, Mattias Gustafsson was announced as the new goalkeeping coach and would be available for today's road match.

The Sweden native, arrives after six years with BK Häcken Women. He worked alongside Robert Vilahamn from 2020-2023. Gustafsson was a part of three UEFA Women’s Champions League tournaments (2020/21, 2021/22, 2023/24).