Chicago City Wire

Chicago Red Stars forward Mallory Swanson has been named to the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) June Best XI of the Month, presented by Amazon Prime, as announced by the league today.

This marks Swanson's first Best XI of the Month honor in 2024 and her seventh overall, with four recognitions earned while playing for the Red Stars. Her previous accolades include March and April of 2018, May and July of 2021, and May and June of 2023. In June’s four matches, Swanson scored three goals, matching her tally from the first nine matches of 2024. She is currently fourth in the NWSL Golden Boot race with seven goals this season. Playing nearly all of June's 360 minutes, Swanson led the Red Stars in shots (8), chances created (5), and passes in the final third (36). Additionally, she leads Chicago in expected goals (5.99), shots (30), chances created (20), and final-third passes (145). Her ten goal contributions place her fifth in the NWSL.

Swanson's three June goals were notable for their execution. On June 14 against Kansas City, she scored within six minutes by placing a shot between the keeper’s arm and leg into the net. On June 23 against North Carolina, she advanced from midfield to score after flicking a throw-in off her heel past three defenders within twelve seconds. On June 28 in San Diego, Swanson controlled a pass from rookie Jameese Joseph before scoring off the crossbar with one touch. This third goal earned her NWSL Goal of the Week honors on July 2.

The NWSL Best XI of the Month is selected each month by the NWSL Media Association and on-air broadcast talent who cover the league consistently.

The full June Best XI of the Month includes:

- Goalkeepers: Anna Moorhouse (ORL)

- Defenders: Elizabeth Ball (KC), Jenna Nighswonger (GFC), Casey Krueger (WAS), Izzy Rodriguez (KC)

- Midfielders: Croix Bethune (WAS), Rose Lavelle (GFC), Lo’eau Labonta (KC)

- Forwards: Barbra Banda (ORL), Temwa Chawinga (KC), Mallory Swanson (CHI)