Makenzy Robbe delivered the decisive blow deep into first-half stoppage time, a solitary strike that propelled Houston Dash to a hard-fought 1-0 victory over San Diego Wave. The home side, playing in front of their Snapdragon Stadium faithful, controlled possession and peppered the away goal with 19 shots, nine of which found the target. Yet, for all their attacking endeavour, the Wave could not find a way past a resolute Houston defence. The Dash, by contrast, remained compact and clinical, capitalising on one of their few forays forward to secure maximum points in this NWSL Round 1 clash. It was a classic smash-and-grab performance from the visitors, leaving San Diego to reflect on a dominant display that ultimately yielded no reward.