Angel City Football Club interim coach Leif Smerud joked after Wednesday’s game that he likes going on the road to see new and different parts of America.
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He’s going to get his wish for the next four games, including the next three consecutive weeks against the top of the NWSL, all coming before the international break. All while Angel City continues its fight for an NWSL playoff spot.
“I look forward to it,” he said. “I like being on the road. I get to see a lot of the U.S., so I’m happy with it, going out and hopefully we can get three points.”
The first three opponents (Utah, Washington and Gotham FC) are all battling for first place in the NWSL. Angel City is currently in ninth place, one point behind the final playoff spot (Seattle Reign, 36 points) and with a clear view of at least fifth place, just three points behind. If Angel City makes the playoffs, it will be just the second time in its five-year history. The first was in 2023 under then interim coach Becki Tweed.
“It’s interesting because I’ve heard that it’s difficult to win away, in this league and that probably is (true),” Smerud said. “But I’ve sort of experienced that it’s not that difficult. We have done well on the road.”
Of Angel City’s 10 wins this season, a new club record, five are on the road and half of their 36 points (18) have come away from BMO Stadium.
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“I think we have a style of play, where we are solid and we also managed to keep the ball a bit,” he said. “That can fit playing away in a good way. It’s good for us. Often there is a bit more space and the opponents has to try to do something offensively, which opens up space for some of our players, with the qualities we have.”
That road mentality was evident earlier this month as Angel City went 2-1 on a three-game trip. The team stayed out on the road, playing the North Carolina Courage, Boston Legacy FC and Racing Louisville FC.
This trip, Angel City will return home after Sunday, but then stay on the road after playing Washington (Sept. 26), heading to New Jersey to face Gotham FC (Oct. 4). After the international break, Angel City will return with a fourth consecutive road game, visiting Denver Summit FC.
“There is a competitive spirit in us now that I like a lot and that really pays off,” Smerud said.
Angel City lost its first meeting against Utah (1-0), May 2. Maiara Niehues received a red card late in the first half, leaving the team a player short for the second half. Utah is up to fourth place (42 points) entering this week. Last season, Utah finished in 12th place.
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ANGEL CITY FC at UTAH ROYALS FC
When: Sunday, 4 p.m.
Where: America First Field; Sandy, Utah
How to watch: NWSL+