Michelle Alozie struck in stoppage time to hand the Houston Dash a dramatic 2-1 victory over Gotham FC in the National Women’s Soccer League on Sunday evening. The match, held at Sports Illustrated Stadium, was interrupted in the second half by thunderstorms, leading to a suspension of play for over two hours.
Gotham’s Esther González opened the scoring in the eighth minute, netting her league-leading 11th goal of the season from close range, with support from Gabi Portilho, making her first start since April.
In the 51st minute, Houston levelled through an unfortunate own goal: Gotham defender Emily Sonnett’s back-pass evaded goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger and crept over the line.
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Although Gotham dominated possession and outshot Houston by a large margin including 15 attempts to just two Houston’s Michelle Alozie raced clear in the 93rd minute and finished confidently to seal the win. VAR reviewed the strike but upheld it, despite initial Gotham protests.
The result snapped Gotham’s four-game unbeaten streak and improved Houston’s post-break record to 2-0-1, while Gotham fell to 5-6-5.
Editorial
We feel that Michelle Alozie’s stoppage-time heroics serve as a potent reminder of football’s finest truism it favours the bold. Despite Gotham’s dominance controlling possession, launching wave after wave of attacks they found themselves undone by one moment of ruthless efficiency.
From our perspective, this match underlines the essence of elite competition: it is not merely about creating chances, but converting them and preventing catastrophes at the back. Gotham’s own goal was a harsh faultline in what otherwise had been a commanding performance. It highlights how even marginal errors can prove decisive at the highest level.
For Houston, Alozie’s strike embodies resilience. With a two-hour weather delay disrupting momentum, many teams might have dissolved under pressure. Instead, Houston remained compact, patient, and seized their opportunity when it mattered most.
We continue to watch with admiration as Houston chase back into playoff contention. Alozie’s late breakthrough did more than win a game it reaffirmed the belief that perseverance under pressure pays dividends. And that belief is exactly what elevates teams from hopeful contenders to genuine threats.
Did You Know?
- Michelle Alozie’s stoppage-time goal was her first of the NWSL season.
- The match delay lasted approximately two hours and 18 minutes due to thunderstorms during the second half.
- Michelle Alozie, born in the United States, represents Nigeria internationally and plays as a right-back for the Dash.
- Houston Dash have one of the lowest shot counts but highest efficiency in the league with multiple results this season decided by just one or two shots.
