Angel City FC is in its most challenging period since the club began playing in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). The Los Angeles-based club has been penalized $200,000 and lost three points in the standings right after they violated the salary cap.

The investigation found that Angel City had exceeded the league’s salary cap by roughly $50,000 for four weeks during the 2024 season. Losing both money and standings points at this juncture in their inaugural season where playoffs are in doubt was not welcome news. Despite this, head coach Becki Tweed said her team will not let the penalties distract them from their goal. In a strong statement to co-owner Alexis Ohanian and the fans, Tweed said it’s important to focus on the upcoming games.

 “We can’t focus on what we can’t control. We’ve got a game next week to go into, and we’ve got three points to get. Then we’ve got two more games where we have to get three more points.” It was a statement of resilience, highlighting her ability to keep her squad grounded and motivated despite the unexpected blow.

The punishment further extends to a ban on club president Julie Uhrman and general manager Angela Hucles Mangano to sign players until the end of 2024. For them, the penalties have been difficult to digest. Alexis Ohanian, a vocal and engaged leader of the club, has been a significant figure in building Angel City’s brand and presence within the NWSL. 

There is still no public statement from Alexis Ohanian on the sanctions, yet an affirmation that he supports Tweed and the players on their journey. The club’s mission lives larger than any one setback. The deduction is a hard pill to swallow, but it won’t break Angel City, their players, and their fans.

Angel City Fights for Playoff Hopes After NWSL Sanctions

Veteran leaders like Christen Press and captain Ali Riley know that now is the time to rally the squad—grit and determination will be the driving forces as Angel City FC fights through the final stretch of the season. Each game from here on out carries immense weight, with no margin for error. The pressure is at an all-time high, but if there’s one thing Angel City can count on, it’s the passionate support of their fans. The club’s loyal fanbase will be there, in full force, urging their team on to overcome this major challenge.

In the midst of it all, head coach Becki Tweed has made her stance crystal clear—following the NWSL penalties, she delivered a strong statement that spoke volumes about her commitment to keeping Angel City FC laser-focused on the task at hand. The path ahead is undoubtedly tougher, with points lost and the stakes even higher, but Tweed made it clear that her players cannot be distracted by factors outside their control. It’s about focusing on what lies ahead and pushing forward.

Now, Angel City’s resilience faces its true test. With three massive games left in the season, nine crucial points are on the line. Every player must step up, every moment will count. The playoffs are still within reach, but it’s up to them to fight for every inch, to earn it all back, and prove they belong among the league’s best. The pressure is mounting, but this is when champions are made—when teams dig deep, shut out the noise, and rise to the occasion. The road may be rocky, but with the unwavering support of their fans and the determination in their hearts, Angel City FC is ready to take on whatever comes their way.