It’s another tough Wednesday night match for the Washington Spirit, as the top-ranked team takes on the number-three Utah Royals.

The Spirit (10-3-3) have won four of five matches since returning from the World Cup break but have been operating on narrow margins, typically winning by just one point. Playing their second game in four days, they’ll need to make the most of every scoring opportunity to try to build a defensible lead.

Utah Royals (9-3-4) have had a slightly rockier July but have recently defeated two strong teams in Orlando Pride and North Carolina Courage. Strong attackers like Cloe Lacasse and Mina Tanaka have them tied for a lead in the league (with the Spirit) in goals per match and third in expected goals.

Key Player: Leicy Santos

The first 60 minutes of Sunday’s match showed how essential Leicy Santos is to the Spirit’s attack. Both her passing and defensive skills were on full display in that game and will be relied upon tonight as well.

Watch Out For: Mina Tanaka

Japan’s Mina Tanaka has scored five goals and made four assists for Utah this year, including a killer header against North Carolina last Saturday.

Challenges: Both teams are on a short turnaround, but the Spirit are also coping with travel and a number of players away on international duty. Organization and rest defense will be key to help them conserve energy tonight.

Previously: The Spirit and Royals tied in Washington in March, with Rebeca Bernal and Mina Tanaka scoring a goal apiece.

Utah Royals Availability:

Out: Alex Loera (Knee – SEI), KK Ream (Knee – SEI)

Questionable: None

Washington Spirit Availability:

Out: Deborah Abiodun (Intl Duty), Mélissa Bethi (Intl Duty), Lucia Di Guglielmo (Lower Leg), Ashley Hatch (Maternity Leave), Aubrey Kingsbury (Maternity Leave), Rosemonde Kouassi (Intl Duty), Casey Krueger (Maternity Leave), Gift Monday (Intl Duty), Monique Ngock (Intl Duty)

Questionable: None

Location: America First Field, Sandy, UT
Kickoff time: 9 p.m. ET
Referee: Matt Thompson
Available streaming: NWSL+