Angel City Shuts Out San Diego Wave, 2-0
SAN DIEGO, Calif. (July 11, 2026) – Angel City FC continued its strong run following the NWSL break with a 2-0 road victory over league-leading San Diego Wave FC on Saturday at Snapdragon Stadium.
First-half goals from Brazilian midfielders Maiara Niehues and Ary Borges proved to be enough, while goalkeeper Angelina Anderson delivered six saves to earn her second straight clean sheet. The win also marked Angel City's second consecutive victory under interim head coach Leif Smerud.
Angel City opened the scoring in the 17th minute after forcing a turnover high up the field. A cross into the box was only partially cleared, allowing Niehues to head home the rebound. Borges doubled the lead nine minutes later, finishing a loose ball inside the six-yard box after a long throw created chaos in front of goal.
San Diego pushed hard after halftime, but Anderson and the Angel City defense stood firm. The goalkeeper made several key saves, including stops against Trinity Byars, Mimi Van Zanten, and Kimmi Ascanio, while the visitors successfully defended 10 corner kicks.
The Wave's best chance came in the 85th minute after earning a penalty, but Lia Godfrey's attempt struck the post and stayed out, preserving Angel City's clean sheet.
Despite San Diego's late pressure, Angel City controlled much of the first half with an aggressive press and efficient finishing, handing the Wave a rare home defeat while recording its third shutout of the season.
Angel City returns to action on July 18 with a road match against Chicago Stars FC, while San Diego looks to bounce back in its next league fixture.
Photos by: Tommy Dodd
@dodd.studios
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