U.S. team brings local attractions back for tournament

Just in case there was any doubt, U.S. women’s national team midfielder Morgan Brian has been reminded through social media just how excited local fans are to see Carli Lloyd, Brian and former Dash teammate Meghan Klingenberg play for an Olympic berth on Friday at BBVA Compass Stadium.

Lloyd, Brian and Klingenberg, who spent last season with the Dash, will try to help the U.S. qualify for the Summer Olympics on Friday night in a semifinal match against underdog Trinidad and Tobago.

The CONCACAF Olympic Qualifying Championship semifinals will serve as a home coming for Lloyd, Brian and Klingenberg.

When they weren’t helping the U.S. win the 2015 Women’s World Cup title, they played for the National Women’s Soccer League’s Dash last season. Fans flooded their social media feeds with messages and pictures on Twitter and Instagram after the trio helped the U.S. advance to the semifinals.

“People are excited that we are here, so we’re excited to give them a show,” Brian said.

Capitalizing on the excitement from the Women’s World Cup title, the Dash increased attendance in 2015 to 6,413 per game after averaging 4,650 during the inaugural 2014 season.

The CONCACAF Olympic Qualifying Championship gives the U.S. women’s team and the Dash another opportunity to grow the sport in Houston heading into the Dash’s home opener April 16 against the Chicago Red Stars.

“I think it’s so important,” Brian said. “You saw from the World Cup with the national team players coming back there was a huge boost in attendance. I think that with all of us coming back and playing for our NSWL teams, it only helps both teams, es- pecially the Dash and also the women’s national team.

“Because they can see these players in their own cities and their backyards, more girls can identify with these players. And I think that’s so important for every single player and even young girls growing up that want to eventually play for the women’s national team.”