CHICAGO STARS 0-3 DENVER SUMMIT FC
Oct 4, 2026
Att: 4,614 • Martin Field
CHICAGO — Denver Summit FC walked away from Chicago with three important points Sunday afternoon, defeating Chicago Stars FC 3-0 at Northwestern Medicine Field at Martin Stadium. Denver controlled much of the match from the opening whistle, using its possession and attacking pressure to keep Chicago on the defensive and secure a convincing road victory.
Denver wasted little time establishing itself. Janine Sonis opened the scoring in the eighth minute, giving the Summit an early advantage. Denver continued applying pressure, and in the 26th minute, Sonis set up Lindsey Heaps for the team's second goal. The Summit carried a 2-0 lead into halftime as Chicago struggled to create consistent attacking opportunities.
Chicago came out of the break looking to change the rhythm of the match, making several adjustments throughout the second half. The Stars showed stretches of stronger defensive play and attempted to become more aggressive going forward, but Denver remained organized and limited Chicago's opportunities in front of goal.
Heaps put the match out of reach in the 76th minute, scoring her second goal of the afternoon to extend Denver's lead to 3-0. Heaps finished with a brace, while Sonis contributed a goal and an assist.
Denver controlled approximately 62 percent of possession and recorded 17 shots compared with Chicago's 10. The Summit also registered six shots on target, consistently creating dangerous opportunities throughout the match.
Despite the result, Chicago had some positive individual performances. Michelle Alozie won all five of her attempted tackles, while goalkeeper Katie Atkinson recorded three saves. However, the Stars were unable to turn their defensive efforts into goals.
The victory moved Denver to 38 points and marked the club's 10th win of its inaugural NWSL season, keeping the Summit in contention for a postseason spot.
Sunday's result also completed a season sweep for Denver against Chicago. After winning their first meeting 6-1, the Summit finished the season series with a combined 9-1 advantage.
Chicago will look to regroup as the regular season approaches its final stretch, while Denver continues its push toward the playoffs following another strong performance in its inaugural season.
- Ivan Ibarra
