NWSL Challenge Cup Champions Washington Spirit look to push on from their first win of the season as they host NWSL Shield visitors Kansas City Current at Audi Field.
Before the international break, Adrián González’s side had collected their first three points with a 2-0 win, away from home against Bay FC at PayPal Park.
Many dubbed Washington Spirit to make amends quickly following their Championship defeat to Juan Carlos Amorós’ Gotham FC side.
They have struggled to kick into form with their slow start in the first five games of the season.
Despite being a team filled with attacking prowess with the likes of Trinity Rodman and Sofia Cantore, they have struggled to gel at the start of the season to create chances in front of goal.
They’ve managed to further cement the defensive presence with English international Esme Morgan and Tara McKeown, with Morgan a guaranteed starter with her solid performances.
Visitors Kansas City Current head to Audi Field with the same points as the Spirit in the standings, with a crucial win against Gotham FC in front of the home faithful at CPKC Stadium.
Chris Armas and his side have managed to retain the services of their star player, Tenwa Chawinga, back-to-back NWSL MVP, who got good minutes in her first start of the season and came up with an assist in the win against Gotham FC.
Brazilian international Debinha remains a pivotal piece of the puzzle for the Current, with her intricate playmaking and dynamism with fellow winger Michelle Cooper
Going into the game, the Kansas City-based side look to bounce back from their three-game losing stint and kick on from their big win against the reigning NWSL champions.
With a mouth-watering battle between the league’s biggest superstars from last season in Trinity Rodman and Tenwa Chawinga, it’s set to be an enthralling encounter between two teams looking to push further into the playoff spots.
Ahead of the game, Washington Spirit defender Esme Morgan spoke about what to anticipate between the matchup against the Current.
She said: “It’ll be a difficult game but we’re excited for the challenge.”
“Kansas are obviously really dangerous with the players that they’ve got with the midfield and forward lines and they are always really organised and solid defensively.”
Morgan added: “We love playing at Audi (Audi Field), so excited to be back with our fans and we think it’ll be a good occasion.”
Coach Chris Armas spoke about the expectations of his team against the Spirit following the break, as they look to grow in strength.
He said: ‘’Like Gotham, an experienced quality side. I think it’s great that we are facing a team like them (Washington Spirit) at this moment when we are facing a bit of momentum.‘’
‘’The break was good for us, while we were sitting on good energy. We’re ready to go again.”