Seattle Reign FC x Kansas City Current
The Kansas City Current returned to the top of the NWSL table following a gritty 0-0 draw against the Seattle Reign at Lumen Field. Despite the lack of goals, it was a match filled with significance for the Current, as they secured their first clean sheet of the season while also enduring their first scoreless encounter. The deadlock also marked the inaugural instance in this season's encounters between the Current and the Reign where neither side emerged victorious, underlining the evenly contested nature of the match.
Head coach Vlatko Andonovski remained optimistic in the aftermath of the draw, emphasizing the team's ability to create scoring opportunities. He noted, "As long as we’re creating opportunities, I know we’re going to score goals as well. Games like this are going to happen, and it’s just part of it." The sentiment reflects the Current's resilient mindset and their confidence in bouncing back from such outcomes.
Forward Michelle Cooper's return to the starting lineup injected dynamism into the Current's attacking play, with her early attempts setting the tone for a spirited performance. Meanwhile, defender Regan Steigleder made an impressive first start, showcasing her composure and distribution skills throughout the match. Despite their relentless efforts and numerous chances on goal, the Current were unable to find the breakthrough against a resolute Seattle defense, ultimately settling for a hard-fought draw.
[Photography by Jackie Shinstrom]