Watch Chicago Stars v Kansas City Current: Jacqui Oatley and Lianne Sanderson on ESPN 2

Football fans in the UK eager for top-tier women's action can tune into the Chicago Stars v Kansas City Current clash in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) on Sunday 22 March 2026 at 18:00 UK time. While no British channels like ITV, BBC, Sky or TNT are broadcasting this fixture, US viewers have prime coverage on ESPN 2, the ESPN App and ESPN Unlimited, featuring renowned commentator Jacqui Oatley and co-commentator Lianne Sanderson. Local radio fans can catch the action on 90.9 The Bridge (KTBG) with Dave Borchardt and Jillian Carroll Letrinko.

This mouthwatering NWSL regular season encounter takes place at Northwestern Medicine Field at Martin Stadium in Evanston, Illinois, pitting the struggling Chicago Stars FC against the dominant Kansas City Current. The Stars, sitting 16th with a dismal record, face a Herculean task against the second-placed Current, who boast superior goal difference and form[3][1]. Kansas City clinched the 2025 NWSL Shield and hold a commanding lead, separated by 38 points from Chicago earlier in the season, though the Stars edge them in shooting accuracy (54.49% vs 50.23%) and duels won[1].

For UK audiences, the star attraction is the ESPN broadcast led by Jacqui Oatley, a trailblazing voice in football commentary. Oatley made history as the first woman to commentate a major men's football match on UK TV during the 2007 FA Cup, and has since covered Premier League, Women's Euros and World Cups for outlets like BT Sport and Amazon Prime. Her sharp insights and smooth delivery make her a favourite among British viewers[1][2]. Joining her is Lianne Sanderson, a former Arsenal and England international with over 100 caps. Sanderson won multiple WSL titles and FA Cups, transitioning seamlessly into punditry with stints on BBC, ITV and Sky Sports, where her tactical nous and passion shine through[1][2].

On the local airwaves, 90.9 The Bridge (KTBG) offers detailed coverage with veteran Dave Borchardt, known for his decades calling Chicago-area sports, including women's football, bringing hometown energy to the mic. Assisting is Jillian Carroll Letrinko, a respected analyst with a background in coaching and playing, offering expert breakdowns[1].

The stakes couldn't be higher for Chicago Stars, who need wins in their final five games to salvage playoff hopes, potentially climbing to sixth if rivals falter. Goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher leads the line, but recent losses like 4-0 to Angel City expose defensive frailties[3]. Meanwhile, Kansas City Current are unbeaten in recent outings, with midfielder Allyson Sentnor topping scorers with one goal already this term. Their recent 4-1 thrashing of Chicago underscores dominance, part of a head-to-head where Kansas City hold six wins to Chicago's five, with four draws[2][4].

Odds favour Kansas City at -200, with over/under 2.5 goals at -120/-125, reflecting expectations of a tight but goal-filled affair[3]. Chicago's recent draws and losses contrast Kansas City's wins, including 2-1 over Utah Royals[3]. Fans can delve deeper into the NWSL official site for lineups, stats and more.

Don't miss this David vs Goliath battle, where Chicago's duel-winning grit (997 vs 932) could spark an upset if Kansas City rest stars post-Shield triumph[1]. Whether streaming ESPN or tuning radio, Oatley and Sanderson's expert duo promises unparalleled analysis for British fans craving NWSL excitement.

Article generated: 21 March 2026, 18:25 GMT