Orlando Pride Defeat Chicago Stars 3-0

Banda, Ovalle & Anderson Score in Decisive Victory

Mar. 29, 2026 at 1:51am

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The Orlando Pride secured a decisive 3-0 victory over the Chicago Stars on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, marking their first win of the NWSL season and ending the Stars' nine-game unbeaten home streak. Forward Barbra Banda continued her impressive form, scoring her third goal in as many matches, while Jacquie Ovalle and Hannah Anderson also found the net for the Pride.

Why it matters

This win is a statement about the Pride's evolving strategy and the emergence of exciting young talent, like rookie Solai Washington, who made a significant impact in her first professional start. The Pride's success reflects a broader trend in the NWSL towards developing versatile, competitive young players to build sustainable success.

The details

Banda's early goal, assisted by Ally Lemos, set the tone for the game. Ovalle's back-heel flick finish and subsequent assist to Anderson further demonstrated the Pride's attacking threat. Head Coach Seb Hines praised the team's tactical awareness and ability to adapt, which led to the shutout victory.

  • The match was played on Wednesday, March 25, 2026.
  • The Pride will play their next match against Gotham FC on Sunday, March 29, 2026.

The players

Barbra Banda

A forward for the Orlando Pride who has now scored three goals in as many matches this season.

Jacquie Ovalle

A midfielder for the Orlando Pride who contributed a goal and an assist in the match against the Chicago Stars.

Hannah Anderson

A midfielder for the Orlando Pride who scored her first professional goal in the match against the Chicago Stars.

Solai Washington

A rookie player for the Orlando Pride who made a significant impact in her first professional start, providing the assist for Ovalle's goal.

Seb Hines

The head coach of the Orlando Pride, who emphasized the team's tactical preparation and ability to adapt in the match against the Chicago Stars.

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What they’re saying

“We must continue to build on this momentum and maintain our focus as we head into our next match against Gotham FC.”

— Seb Hines, Head Coach, Orlando Pride

What’s next

The Pride will continue their road trip with a match against Gotham FC on Sunday, March 29, with kickoff set for 7 p.m. This upcoming match will be a crucial test for the Pride as they look to build on their recent momentum and establish themselves as a top contender in the NWSL.

The takeaway

The Orlando Pride's success story reflects a broader trend in the NWSL towards developing versatile, competitive young players to build sustainable success. The combination of experienced players and promising newcomers has created a dynamic environment where the Pride can thrive and adapt to the ever-changing demands of the league.