The Orlando Pride just can’t lose. They’ve broken club and league records after 15 games, but now it’s a clash of unstoppable forces and immovable objects in a matchup of unbeatens.
The Pride (10-0-5, 35 points) will face the Kansas City Current (10-0-5) on Saturday.
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There is nothing separating the two teams in terms of records, goal difference, and head-to-head records – both with 2 wins, 2 losses, and 2 draws. A win in this matchup would put the Pride at the top of the NWSL.
Despite the high stakes, Pride captain Marta sees this as any other game. She knows her team is capable and their approach won’t change.
“Obviously, it’s going to be a very tough game. They’ve never lost and we’ve never lost either so everyone is expecting it to be a big game,” she said. “For us, it’s the same. It’s nothing different from now. We’re going to Kansas City to play one more game and we’re looking forward to doing our best and getting three more points.”
The NWSL Championship is coming to Kansas City, but the Pride have to get there first
This matchup will depend on which stars perform well. Orlando has had a strong start since adding Zambia international Barbara Banda (11G, 5A) to the team in April, while Kansas City’s Temwa Chawinga (11G, 6A) is also a potential MVP candidate.
Orlando coach Seb Hines foresees the challenge Chawinga will pose.
“There are some key players we have to be careful of and we need to identify them and find a solution to stop them,” Hines said. “It’s all about executing the game plan, and that’s what we’ll do. This is another game where we have to play determined defense. We have to be persistent, but also be a threat in transition.”
Haley McCutcheon (illness) is questionable for the Pride, while Simone Charley (right leg), Luana (illness), Megan Montefusco (right heel) and Viviana Villacorta (left knee) are out for the season.
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Current Pride
When: Saturday, CPKC Stadium, 7:30 p.m.
Television: Aeon
