Portland Thorns FC defeated Kansas City NWSL 1-0 thanks to Simone Charley's first-half stoppage-time goal. With the win, Portland improves to 5-0-2 (W-D-L) on the season. Throughout the first half, Charley harassed the Kansas City defense. Christine Sinclair waited for the square ball that would have resulted in a tap-in as she slalomed through the middle. The shot was taken by Charley, but it was deflected.

Crystal Dunn was awarded a penalty kick after an Elizabeth Ball handball resulted in a penalty kick for Sinclair. The Thorns dominated the first half, but chances were few and far between until the 41st minute. Dunn slipped a pass to Charley that split the defense. Charley had a one-on-one encounter with Smith and was once again denied.

Deep into first-half stoppage time, Dunn and Charley combined to break the deadlock. Dunn was caught by Horan in the Thorns' own half. She swiftly recognized Charley's run and played it over the top. Charley side-footed the ball into an empty net after taking a touch around the onrushing A. Smith.

The visitors created more chances in the second half than they did in the first, but just half-chances and set pieces. S. Smith and Morgan Weaver, who were on the bench, sprinted at the backline and came near to double the Thorns' lead several times.

Due to a Sinclair giveaway in the Thorns' defensive third, Kansas City had their best chance of the game. Rodriguez was able to be played into the box by Bowen, and she shot fast. Franch booted the ball away from the goal and diverted the shot. In the extra time, she also had to tip a dangerous long-range effort over the bar. The game would result in a 1-0 victory for Portland.

[Photography by ICONIC photographer Scott Boldt]