Houston Dash internationals excelling in CONCACAF, AFCON and the EUROS

The Houston Dash have spent the better part of a month plus watching some of their best players perform on the international stage. Here is an update.

Canada's run to a CONCACAF Women's title and an automatic berth in the 2024 Olympics came up short in a 1-0 loss to the USWNT. Dash defender Alyssa Chapman was called for a questionable foul in the match leading to a penalty conversion by Alex Morgan and the only tally of the match. Chapman, known more for her tenacious defense than offense scored Canada's semi-final win over Jamaica. Houston Dash midfielder Sophie Schmidt became the just the third Canadian women's international to score in three different decades (2000, 2010,2020) with a goal in the 69th minute of Canada's quarterfinal win. CHapma, Schmidt and forward Nichelle Prince will return to the team in time for their July 31st road match against Gotham FC.

Houston Dash forward Michelle Alozie has spent the last month or so representing Nigeria in the 2022 AFCON tournament. The championship run for Alozie and the Super Falcons coached by former Dash head coach Randy Waldrum came to an end on PK's in the AFCON semi-finals. They will play in the third place game on July 22nd against Zambia.

Houston Dash forward Maria Sanchez saw their fortunes for a 2022 CONCACAF Women's title come to an end with three consecutive losses in the final round. Sanchez, who found the back of the net in a couple June warm-ups had little luck in July. She returned to the Dash in time to help them post a 4-1 win over the Chicago Red Stars on July 16th.

Houston Dash star Rachel Daly has had the most success of any of the internationals as her Lionesses are into the Women's EUROS Quarterfinals. Daly, who generally plays forward or commands the midfield has featured at left back for the Englanders. It is a spot the English began tinkering with for her and she has embraced it.

“Do you think I’m enjoying playing there?” she laughed during an interview with englandfootball.com. “I enjoy it, I love it. I think it really suits my attributes. But again, like I say, I’ll play whatever role I’m asked to on the pitch.”

Most if not all the Houston Dash internationals should arrive stateside in time for their next match against Gotham FC on July 31st.