After an unforgettable year, Bay FC has become just the second expansion team in NWSL history to clinch a playoff berth in their first season. From their first-ever match to clinching a playoff berth, the team’s journey has been one of resilience and growth – ultimately ending the season as the top-ranked California NWSL team and breaking the record for the most wins by an expansion team in their debut season. Here’s a look back at some of the key moments from Bay FC’s historic inaugural season.
March 17: Bay FC Earns First Win in Club History
In their first-ever NWSL match, Bay FC made an immediate statement with a 1-0 win over Angel City FC. Asisat Oshoala etched her name into Bay FC history by scoring the game-winning goal, marking the start of a promising inaugural campaign.
June 8: Bay FC Wins at Wrigley Field in Front of Record Crowd
In one of the most memorable matches of the season, Bay FC took on the Chicago Red Stars at Wrigley Field in front of a record-setting NWSL crowd of 35,038 fans. Bay FC earned a thrilling 2-1 victory, with a goal in each half. This win in such an iconic venue was a defining moment for the team, solidifying their place as contenders.
June 29: First-Ever PK Leads Bay FC to Victory
Traveling to Louisville, Bay FC secured another hard-fought victory by defeating Racing Louisville 1-0. This match featured the first-ever penalty kick in Bay FC history, with Oshoala converting it to seal a crucial win on the road.
August 26: Abby Dahlkemper Joins Bay FC
In a pivotal move for Bay FC, the team acquired World Cup winner Abby Dahlkemper from San Diego Wave FC. Dahlkemper, a Bay Area native, expressed her excitement about returning to play for her hometown team. Her presence strengthened Bay FC’s defensive line, providing leadership and experience at the highest level. Head Coach Albertin Montoya praised her fit within the team’s style of play, which was crucial in the second half of the season.
August 30: 3-1 Road Win Over Portland
Bay FC earned a 3-1 victory against the Portland Thorns at Providence Park. Abby Dahlkemper’s early header, followed by Rachel Hill’s close-range goal, gave Bay a solid lead. Joelle Anderson sealed the win with a left-footed strike outside the box in the 70th minute. Bay FC’s defense, led by Emily Menges and Caprice Dydasco, combined with stellar saves from Katelyn Rowland, shut down Portland’s attack, securing the important multi-goal victory on the road.
October 19: Bay FC Defeats North Carolina in Final Home Match
In their final home match of the regular season, Bay FC secured a dramatic 1-0 victory over North Carolina Courage, with Abby Dahlkemper scoring the game-winning goal from a set piece assisted by Racheal Kundananji. This win not only delighted the PayPal Park crowd but also played a vital role in the battle for the playoffs.
November 2: Playoff Spot Secured
Bay FC clinched their playoff berth with a 3-2 win over the Houston Dash, led by a stand-out match and brace from Kundananji. This victory officially locked Bay FC into the 2024 NWSL Playoffs, capping off their remarkable first season in style. After the Chicago Red Stars’ loss to Kansas City Current on November 3, Bay’s position as the 7-seed was confirmed.
Up next, Bay FC heads into a quarterfinal match against Washington Spirit on November 10 at 9:30 a.m. PT at Audi Field. Watch the match on ABC and click here for more information about the first round of the 2024 NWSL Playoffs.
