NWSL · NWSL · Est. 2013 · Shell Energy Stadium
Updated March 16, 2026
The Dash's separation from the Houston Dynamo ownership group has been transformative. New majority owner Jessica O'Neill has poured resources into player development and facilities, and the club's culture reset is palpable. Head coach Fran Alonso, hired midway through 2025, now gets his first full preseason to implement a possession-heavy style that looked promising in flashes last fall.
The Mexican international midfielder was Houston's best player in 2025 with seven goals and nine assists, and the Dash need even more from her in 2026. The front office added Colombian forward Catalina Usme to share the attacking load, but Sanchez remains the engine. Her ability to dictate tempo in the Houston heat will determine whether this club can sneak into the playoff picture.