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Article continues belowArticle continues belowArticle continues below<script type="application/json" data-placement="fcplayer-semantic">{"type":"fcplayer-semantic","data":{"embedCode":"//cdn.fcp.codes/embed-code-template/embed-code-template.js#SEMANTIC_5704afb8-c10b-4ba5-9cb4-d7fb6098ef90"}}</script><ul><li>Angel City scored twice in the first half, Wave made it 2-1 late</li><li>Donovan appointed interim manager last week</li><li>Hasn't coached since USL with San Diego Loyal</li></ul>

San Diego Wave drops first NWSL match of Landon Donovan era to Angel City

Donovan's NWSL managerial career got off to a rocky start, the former USMNT attacking midfielder's San Diego side losing 2-1 to Angel City. A late goal from Abby Dahlkemper couldn't overturn a 2-0 deficit. The Wave now find themselves 11th in the Western Conference, four points out of a playoff spot.

WHAT HAPPENED?

The decision to appoint Donovan head coach was met by confusion after the <a href="https://www.goal.com/en-us/lists/uswnt-alex-morgan-jadeyn-shaw-san-diego-wave-casey-stoney-sacked-nwsl/blt882f0beb0035f983" target="_blank">Wave sacked Casey Stoney in late June</a>. The manager had gone seven straight games without a win - a hefty turn from a coach once linked with the Chelsea job after the departure of Emma Hayes. Donovan is now charged with taking a team with just three wins in 16 games to the playoffs.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

The Southern California team's focus now turns to an NWSL fixture with the Washington Spirit, where they <a href="https://www.goal.com/en-us/lists/landon-donovan-nwsl-san-diego-wave-interim-head-coach/blt506cd84a75ea41eb" target="_blank">will look to stay in the playoff picture</a>. Later in September, Domovan's side have CONCACAF W Champions League play to worry about, highlighted by a clash with Club America.

WHAT NEXT FOR SAN DIEGO WAVE?

San Diego Wave drops first NWSL match of Landon Donovan era to Angel City | Goal.com United Arab Emirates

The USMNT manager lost his first league fixture at the helm as Angel City continued its slide down the standings