Five things NWSL: Gia Corley emerges as German-American prospect

A VAR upset at 'Rowdy Audi' and California teams join the party

22-year-old Gia Corley has burst into life at the start of her first NWSL season | Credit: San Diego Wave

NWSL MW2 Results:

Portland Thorns 1-1 Angel City | NC Courage 1-2 Seattle Reign
Washington Spirit 0-2 KC Current | Bay FC 2-0 Racing Louisville
San Diego Wave 3-2 Utah Royals | Chicago Stars 1-2 Houston Dash
Gotham FC 0-2 Orlando Pride

Corley makes a splash, Germany call-up?

Of all the new players arriving in the NWSL, Gia Corley wasn’t one too many people hyped up. The American-born, German-raised forward has been sensational through the first two weeks of the season.

The 22-year-old’s tricky and direct dribbling on the touchline to create the opening Wave goal in their 3-2 win over Utah Royals was superb. Her finish for the winner, capitalising on a poor pass from keeper Mandy McGlynn, was ruthless. With two goals and an assist after two appearances, she has already equaled her goal from each of the past two seasons at Hoffenheim.

Coming up through the Bayern Munich academy, Corley has chosen to represent Germany at youth levels. A few more eye-catching performances in the NWSL and a first senior Germany call-up beckons. She could yet become a secret weapon for Euro 2025.