Historic Home Opener for Denver Summit FC at Empower Field

Record-Breaking Attendance for NWSL Home Opener

Denver Summit FC is set to make history with its inaugural home match at Empower Field at Mile High, having already sold nearly 55,000 tickets. This landmark attendance will surpass all previous National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) records and underscores the rapid growth of women’s professional soccer in Colorado. Fans will pack the stadium to see the expansion side face the Washington Spirit, featuring standout forward Trinity Rodman.

How to Watch NWSL on CBS

• Denver Summit FC vs. Washington Spirit – Saturday, March 28 at 1 p.m. ET on CBS and Paramount+
• Portland Thorns vs. Kansas City Current – Saturday, March 28 at 4 p.m. ET on CBS and Paramount+

Tune into CBS or stream live on Paramount+ to catch both matches, including a doubleheader showcasing Summit’s home debut followed by the Thorns-Current showdown.

Building Momentum: Denver Summit’s Early Season Form

First NWSL Victory Against Gotham FC

After three road fixtures, Denver Summit FC earned its first win with a 2-0 upset over reigning champions Gotham FC. That breakthrough victory followed an opening-day 2-1 loss to Bay FC and a 1-1 draw with Orlando Pride, demonstrating resilience and rapid improvement under new head coach Nick Cushing.

Roster Highlights and Key Signings

To bolster its squad, Denver Summit FC invested heavily in talent acquisition:
– USWNT captain Lindsey Horan is set to join the team later this season.
– Midseason signings include forward Melissa Kössler—who has already netted three goals in three matches—and Japanese international Yuzuki Yamamoto.
– Emerging talents like Yazmeen Ryan and Delanie Sheehan are adding depth and competition.

Establishing the Starting Lineup and Team Culture

Competition for Places Drives Performance

Coach Nick Cushing emphasizes healthy competition and collective buy-in. With a brand-new roster, establishing consistency and ambition is a top priority. Players are encouraged to push each other for starting roles, fostering a championship mindset focused on sustained performance and internal support.

Key Players to Watch

– Goalkeeper Abby Smith leads the league with 19 saves and an 86.4% save percentage, earning her first clean sheet in the win over Gotham FC.
– Forward Melissa Kössler quickly became a fan favorite, scoring in each of her first three appearances and showcasing the clinical finishing Denver needs.

Washington Spirit’s Season Outlook

Offseason Changes and Roster Updates

Washington Spirit enter Denver with roster upgrades and a focus on rebounding:
– Re-signed star forward Trinity Rodman on a contract through 2028.
– Added Paraguayan international Claudia Martínez and Italian defender Lucia Di Guglielmo.
– Traded Croix Béthune to Kansas City Current, reshaping midfield options in Bishop’s absence.

Early Challenges and Tactical Adjustments

The Spirit are still searching for their first win after two draws and an opening loss to Portland Thorns. Coach Adrian Gonzalez remains patient, highlighting the team’s ability to create scoring chances despite a slow start. With Rodman leading the shot tally, Washington’s attack is building momentum and aims to convert opportunities into goals.

Looking Ahead to Matchday

As Denver Summit FC prepares for its historic NWSL home opener, excitement is building across the league. Record attendance, strong early-season form, and high-profile matchups on CBS will put the spotlight on the Mile High City. Both Denver and Washington Spirit will look to build momentum and claim critical points in this landmark fixture.