Mallory Swanson broke her 11‑game NWSL drought on Saturday, striking a low drive from outside the box to give Chicago Stars a 1-0 victory over Bay FC. The United States forward entered at halftime in only her second match after an 18‑month maternity leave, and her goal came moments before Bay were reduced to nine men. The goal snapped a long personal slump.

Swanson, a 28‑year‑old who logged 38 goals in 103 caps for the USWNT, had not featured since November 2024. Her previous appearance came against North Carolina Courage, marking her first game in 559 days. He also led the US to Olympic gold with four goals. The win lifted Chicago to just three wins this season, keeping them rooted at 15th place with nine points.

Bay FC’s troubles deepened when goalkeeper Jordan Silkowitz received a straight red for an intentional handball, joining defender Aldana Cometti who had been sent off early. Swanson twisted her ankle in the final minutes, walked off unaided and watched the remainder from the bench. Club hopes it sparks a surge.