It was a tough moment for Angel City FC fans to watch their young star, Alyssa Thompson, depart for Chelsea. Sure, the USWNT forward’s transfer brought in roughly $1.5 million for the NWSL side. But in reality, the California-based club paid a far bigger—arguably priceless—price in losing such a talented player, leaving many to wonder who would step up to fill the void. Yet, what some seem to overlook is that ACFC already had a familiar name waiting in the wings: none other than Alyssa’s sister, Gisele Thompson.

The younger sibling is no stranger to clutch performances, often displaying her talent with the US women’s national team under Emma Hayes. So, it’s only natural to see the 19-year-old wingback leading her club toward the NWSL playoffs. And boy, is she doing her job seamlessly. On Thursday, Angel City hosted the Washington Spirit in their Matchday 21 clash, which ended in a 2-2 draw.

Though Gisele Thompson couldn’t get her name on the scoresheet, she did assist on her team’s opening goal. That moment not only helped her secure Player of the Match honor but also helped her tie for the second-most assists in a single season for LA, making it truly a remarkable milestone for the youngster.

Then again, the 2-2 draw not only left ACFC stuck in 11th place with 24 points, while the Washington Spirit sits at second with a tally of 37, but also opened the door for NWSL leaders Kansas City Current. Holding a 13-point cushion with a tally of 50, they can lock up the 2025 NWSL Shield with a win in their upcoming weekend clash against Seattle Reign.

Pulling it off would make Vlatko Andonovski’s side the fastest team ever to clinch the Shield by percentage of games played—21 out of 26. For context, Seattle in 2014 and NCC in 2018 both sealed it in the 20th game of a 24-match season. And it doesn’t end there. While the rest of the weekend results will shape the picture further, Angel City’s next showdown against Racing Louisville on Saturday is already shaping up to be an early Decision Day clash.

Had Alexander Straus and Co. managed to secure a win over Adrian Gonzalez’s side, the story would have been much different. And to be fair, they could have, when looking at how the match was held. Within 12 minutes, the Spirit earned a penalty with star player Trinity Rodman taking the responsibility. Interestingly, the 22-year-old initially missed thanks to a beautiful effort from ACFC’s Angelina Anderson, before finally scoring from the rebound.

However, just a couple of minutes later, Evelyn Shores struck the equalizer, set up brilliantly by Gisele Thompson. The home side kept the momentum going and grabbed the lead in the 55th minute, this time courtesy of an unfortunate own goal from Tara McKeown. Yet, just when it seemed the Angels were about to secure all three points, Croix Bethune leveled the score again in the 71st minute.

So you can imagine the kind of atmosphere and pressure there was for the game. Either way, it’s safe to say that Gisele Thompson was one of the players who were able to maintain her composure throughout the game and take charge, especially in the absence of her elder sister. And even if Alyssa isn’t here, her younger sister is making her presence felt!

Gisele Thompson is making sure Alyssa’s presence lingers

Before arriving at BMO Stadium for the game, Gisele Thompson was seen donning a Chelsea women’s jersey of her sister, Alyssa Thompson. The glimpses were shared across social media, one of which even the Angel City right back shared on her Instagram stories. The click was enough to showcase how proud Gisele is of her elder sibling, who took the next big step in her career.

Everyone saw Alyssa and Gisele as two peas in a pod. From playing together for the first time at Angel City to setting each other up with goals and assists for the national team, their connection off the pitch translated seamlessly onto it. And even though this duo has sadly parted ways, their bond remains inseparable. Who knows—maybe one day they’ll reunite at the club level, even if they’re destined to stay side by side with the national team.

Either way, share your views in the comments on how great job Gisele Thompson is doing for Angel City even in Alyssa Thompson’s absence.