The Ohio capital becomes the 18th NWSL franchise in a record-breaking deal that signals explosive growth for women's professional soccer.
The National Women's Soccer League continues its remarkable expansion trajectory after awarding Columbus, Ohio an 18th franchise through a record-setting deal with the Haslam Sports Group-led ownership consortium. The new Columbus club will kick off competition in 2028, adding another major market to America's premier women's soccer league.
This expansion comes at a pivotal moment for women's football globally, with African nations increasingly making their mark on the international stage. Nigerian stars like Asisat Oshoala and South African captain Thembi Kgatlana have elevated the profile of African women's football, while players across the diaspora continue breaking barriers in top leagues worldwide.
The NWSL's growth mirrors the global surge in women's soccer investment and viewership. For African players eyeing opportunities in America's top flight, this expansion creates additional pathways to showcase their talents on one of the world's most competitive stages. The league has already benefited from African talent, with players like Nigeria's Michelle Alozie making significant impacts.
Columbus joins a league experiencing unprecedented momentum, with record attendance figures and broadcast deals driving expansion. As the NWSL prepares for its 2028 launch in Ohio, the stage is set for more African stars to write their names into American soccer history, continuing the continent's rising influence on the beautiful game.
