KC City 2 – 0 Washington Spirit
The two teams last met in the 2024 semifinals, where the game ended in a 1-1 draw, leading to a penalty shootout. Washington Spirit won 3-0 in the shootout. As the season returns, KC City has started strong and aims to improve its performance from the previous year. In the first 20 minutes, KC City had two shots on target from Michelle Cooper and Debinha. Lorena made a crucial save for KC City in the first half. The first half ended 0-0, but KC City proved to be more of a threat offensively with constant attacks on the Spirit.
In the second half, the Spirit intensified their attack, but Lorena stood firm for KC City in goal. Debinha and Temwa Chawinga teamed up for a counter-attack that resulted in a handball in the box. Lo’eau LaBonta took the penalty kick and scored, giving KC City the lead. Chawinga also netted a goal in the 97th minute of the added 11 minutes, securing a 2-goal victory for KC City. Despite the loss, Aubrey Kingsbury, the Spirit goalkeeper, was outstanding, finishing the game with five saves. KC City registered six shots on target, while the Spirit managed only three.
Orlando Pride 2-0 Gotham FC
Gotham FC appeared to be in a strong position, hosting the Pride at their home, Red Bull Arena. The team recorded better statistics, but it struggled to convert its 16 shots into goals. The pressure mounted early on when Lilly Reale scored an own goal within the first two minutes, giving the Orlando Pride an early advantage. This marked her first start in a professional soccer game with the NWSL.
During a counterattack by Banda and Angelina, Jess Carter tackled Angelina in the penalty box, prompting the referee to award a penalty to the Pride. Marta took the shot for the Pride and scored, giving them a 2-0 lead in the first half. Gotham FC fought hard throughout the game, but Anna Moorhouse, the Pride’s goalkeeper, was crucial to the team’s victory. In the final minutes of the match, the Pride fortified their defensive end in response to the relentless offensive pressure from Gotham.
Statistics Leaders
Chawinga has reclaimed her position as the statistics leader by scoring in both games played so far this season. She is accompanied by Banda from Orlando Pride, who netted two goals in the season’s opening match, Gia Corley of San Diego Wave with two goals, and Maggie Graham of Houston Dash, also with two goals.
Other Game Results
Portland Thorns 1 – 1 Angel City FC
San Diego Wave 3 – 2 Utah Royals FC
North Carolina Courage 1 – 2 Seattle Reign FC
Bay FC 2 – 0 Racing Louisville
Chicago Stars 1 – 2 Houston Dash
