NWSL Playoffs 2024: Chicago Red Stars' road to glory begins!

After a challenging 2023 season, the Chicago Red Stars have secured a playoff spot for the 2024 season. They enter the postseason with a history of near misses, having reached the semifinals four times but never securing a league title. Despite a rocky regular season full of inconsistent performances, the Red Stars managed to qualify by relying on key players like Mallory Swanson, who leads the way with seven goals. Their playoff path includes potential matchups against strong opponents, and for success they must overcome their tendency to be inconsistent.

Through the numbers

• The Chicago Red Stars qualified for the playoffs despite 13 losses and a goal difference of -5.
• Key player Mallory Swanson scored seven goals and provided four assists.

Yes but

Although the Red Stars made the playoffs, their performance was marked by inconsistency, making their playoff journey challenging against strong competition such as Gotham FC and Washington Spirit, both of which earned wins over Chicago this season.

state of affairs

• Chicago can end up in three different playoff positions, which has implications for its potential opponents.
• Based on their final ranking, they will face either Gotham FC, Washington Spirit or Orlando Pride.

What's next?

The NWSL playoffs begin November 9th. The Red Stars are looking to overcome their regular season inconsistencies to compete for the title in a format that requires them to perform at their best.

Conclusion

For the Red Stars, success in the playoffs will depend on reversing their inconsistent form and capitalizing on the strengths of their key players to win a title that has eluded them despite their storied history.