Chicago Stars defeat Kansas City Current 2-1 in NWSL match

Rookie Tessa Dellarose scores first professional goal in victory

Mar. 23, 2026 at 2:26am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In her first professional start, 22-year-old Tessa Dellarose scored the opening goal in the 42nd minute to lead the Chicago Stars to a 2-1 victory over the Kansas City Current in a National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) match on Sunday.

Why it matters

The win marks the first of the season for the Chicago Stars, who are looking to bounce back after a disappointing 2025 campaign. Dellarose's goal-scoring debut is also a positive sign for the team's young talent as they aim to challenge for a playoff spot in the highly competitive NWSL.

The details

Dellarose, a 2026 NWSL draft pick, put the Stars ahead in the first half with a well-placed shot from just outside the box. Kansas City equalized in the 65th minute, but Chicago regained the lead in the 78th minute to secure the 2-1 victory.

  • The match took place on Sunday, March 23, 2026.
  • Dellarose scored her first professional goal in the 42nd minute.
  • Kansas City scored the equalizer in the 65th minute.
  • Chicago scored the game-winning goal in the 78th minute.

The players

Tessa Dellarose

A 22-year-old rookie forward for the Chicago Stars who scored the opening goal in her first professional start.

Chicago Stars

The professional women's soccer team based in Chicago, Illinois that plays in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL).

Kansas City Current

The professional women's soccer team based in Kansas City, Missouri that plays in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL).

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Tessa really stepped up today and showed why we drafted her. She's going to be a big part of our team's future success.”

— Jill Ellis, Head Coach, Chicago Stars

What’s next

The Chicago Stars will look to build on this win as they prepare to face the Portland Thorns in their next NWSL match on April 5th.

The takeaway

Tessa Dellarose's goal-scoring debut is an encouraging sign for the young Chicago Stars squad, who are hoping to rebound from a tough 2025 season and challenge for a playoff spot in the competitive NWSL.