Washington Spirit are back home tonight after a three-game road trip and preparing to take on expansion team Denver Summit FC. These teams previously played to a scoreless draw in front of a record crowd in Denver, but both have made improvements to their game since then.

Washington Spirit (9-3-3) have a chance to regain the number one spot in the NWSL standings with a win or a draw tonight, but they’ll be missing some important players in their quest to do so. Rose Kouassi, Gift Monday, and Deb Abiodun have all traveled to Morocco for the Women’s African Cup of Nations, beginning today. Luckily, Washington boasts one of the deepest benches in the league and has focused on rotating starters to ensure the full roster is prepared to make an impact.

In the fight for a playoff position, Denver Summit (5-4-5) have struggled a bit since returning from the World Cup break but managed a solid win against the Portland Thorns last week. They’ve finally been joined by the long-awaited Lindsey Heaps, who notched an assist in her first appearance for the team in that match, and will likely lean on her leadership and fierce attack going forward.

Key Player: Claudia Martínez

With Rose Kouassi in Morocco for the Women’s African Cup of Nations, Claudia Martinez will be called upon to play a bigger role in Washington’s attack. The youngster is still adjusting to the league, but she’s already demonstrated clear vision and good instincts on the pitch.

Watch Out For: Janine Sonis

Janine Sonis is Denver’s most dangerous goal-scorer, with six goals and two assists so far this season.

Challenges: The Spirit have developed a pattern of strong first halves and shakier seconds in recent weeks. They’ll need to be better prepared to adapt to their opponents’ half-time changes to get back on top.

Previously: The two sides tied 0-0 at Mile High in March.

Denver Summit FC Availability:

Out: Jasmine Aikey (SEI – knee), Jordan Baggett (maternity leave), Lourdes Bosch (international duty), Nahikari Garcia (SEI – knee)

Questionable: None

Washington Spirit Availability:

Out: Deborah Abiodun (international duty), Mélissa Bethi (international duty), Lucia Di Guglielmo (lower leg), Ashley Hatch (maternity leave), Aubrey Kingsbury (maternity leave), Rosemonde Kouassi (international duty), Casey Krueger (maternity leave), Gift Monday (international duty), Monique Ngock (international duty)

Questionable: None

Location: Audi Field, Washington, DC
Kickoff time: 7 p.m. ET
Referee: Elton Garcia
Available streaming: Victory+