By: Joe Cardoso
A new season of the NWSL is set to begin, and it will include two new franchise’s one of which will be Bay FC. Soccer has finally come to the bay and the anticipation for the opener is high and rightfully so. This is a franchise that has star power from the playing field and the boardroom. Co-founded by former U.S. Women’s National Team legends Brandi Chastain, Aly Wagner, Danielle Slaton, and Leslie Osborn, powered by global investment firm Sixth Street. They plan to rattle the women’s professional game with a mix of passionate fans and players aka “the bay way”. What better way to kick things off than to take on a rival with the opening match being Angel City FC who in there own right have built a really fun and competitive organization.
When we look at the roster things started off with a bang, manager Albertin Montoya has a lot of talent to work with. No messing around with this team grabbing superstar striker Asisat Oshoala away from world power Barcelona. Having scored 107 goals in 149 appearances the 29-year old is a winner and brings a lot of creativity and credibility to the team. Joining her will be the most expensive player in women’s futbol signing Zambia forward Racheal Kundananji who is only 23-years old. Unlike most expansion teams that sign old and over the hill talent this is not the case in the bay. General manager Lucy Rushton is playing chess not checkers. With the 4-year contract the best is yet to come for her and the club. The vision was made clear when Rushton said “The way we’ve tried to do it is a blend of youth and experience.” A look at the roster shows that the defenders will be some the better players in the league and strength of the club. I’m excited for the younger players to hit the pitch and show what they can do.
Did we mention we were #BayFC fans? 😁
— Bay Football Club (@wearebayfc) March 4, 2024
The season starts with two road games against as mentioned Angel City FC and then the Washington Spirt before the home opener March 30th vs the Houston Dash. You better believe PayPal Park will be packed and expect some A-listers in the suites and stands. With its diverse population and chill vibes the bay is a perfect spot for futbol and this team will fit right in. Not to mention they have some of the BEST merch in sports, I said what I said. The buzz is real and I for one can’t wait for kickoff. Make sure to keep up with all things Bay FC with our talented content creator Ashmere Prasad.