Orlando Pride defeat KC Current to advance to the NWSL championship

The Orlando Pride secured their spot in the National Women’s Soccer League championship game with a thrilling 3-2 victory over the Kansas City Current. Barbra Banda was the hero for the Pride, scoring the go-ahead goal to seal the win. The Pride will now face off against the Washington Spirit in the final, which will take place at CPKC Stadium in Kansas City on Saturday.

In the other semifinal match, the Washington Spirit booked their spot in the championship game with a penalty shootout victory over defending champions Gotham FC. The Spirit will be looking to upset the top-seeded Orlando Pride in the final showdown.

The Pride, who only lost two games all season and claimed the NWSL Shield, have been in formidable form throughout the campaign. Led by the legendary Marta and Haley McCutcheon, the Pride have been a dominant force in the league. Marta showcased her skill and experience once again, scoring a crucial goal in the semifinal win over Kansas City.

The Current, led by NWSL Golden Boot winner Temwa Chawinga, put up a valiant fight but ultimately fell short against the Pride. Chawinga, who had an outstanding season with 20 goals, played through a knee injury to help her team in the semifinal clash.

The match was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading goals throughout the game. Ally Watt and Debinha also found the back of the net for their respective teams, but it was Banda’s strike in the 53rd minute that proved to be the difference maker.

Marta, a six-time FIFA World Player of the Year, once again showed why she is considered one of the greatest players in women’s soccer history. Her goal in the 82nd minute sealed the win for the Pride and sent the fans at Inter&Co Stadium into a frenzy.

Vanessa DiBernardo managed to pull one back for the Current with a penalty in stoppage time, but it was too little too late for the fourth-seeded team.

The stage is now set for an epic showdown between the Orlando Pride and the Washington Spirit in the NWSL championship game. Both teams will be looking to etch their names in history and lift the coveted league title. It promises to be a thrilling contest between two of the best teams in women’s soccer.