6-keys: media/spln/nwsl/reg/free/stories
CBS Sports Network will offer game replays.Just five days before they were scheduled to play their opening game in the Challenge Cup against the Chicago Stars, the Orlando Pride announced that the club would withdraw after six players and four staff members tested positive for the coronavirus. The NWSL will have the team sports spotlight to itself for an extended period of time, too, since Major League Soccer's tournament won't start until July 8, and Major League Baseball, the NBA and NHL won't return until late July.The NWSL's tournament -- the Challenge Cup -- will conclude on July 26 with its championship game (on CBS).Unfortunately for fans eager to see their favorite players back on the pitch, the Challenge Cup will be without a number of U.S. women's national soccer team stars, as well as an entire team, the Orlando Pride. "Also, six-time FIFA World Player of the Year Marta, who also is a member of the Orlando Pride, will not participate. Nine players from the U.S. national team that won last year's Women's World Cup will not be participating in the NWSL Challenge Cup.
The action started on June 27 when the NWSL became the first professional team sports league to return in the U.S. since the coronavirus pandemic halted sports leagues in March. ET (CBS)Portland Thorns FC-Chicago Red Stars, 12:30 p.m. ETWashington Spirit-North Carolina Courage, 10 p.m. ETNorth Carolina Courage-Chicago Red Stars, 12:30 p.m. ETUSWNT World Cup-winning goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher will be one of the notable players competing in the NWSL's Challenge Cup in Utah. Megan Rapinoe, arguably the league's most famous player, last year's Ballon d'Or winner and a member of the OL Reign, opted not to participate. Good luck to the teams going to [Utah].
Midfielders Crystal Dunn and Sam Mewis, defender Abby Dahlkemper and forward Jess McDonald are all members of the two-time defending NWSL champions.Defender Julie Ertz and goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher are members of the Chicago Red Stars.All games will air on CBS All Access unless otherwise noted. The NWSL will become the first American pro team sports league to resume during the coronavirus pandemic when the Challenge Cup kicks off this weekend. Every game will be available on CBS All Access.