Kansas City Current and Chicago Red Stars face off for NWLS records and playoffs

Kansas City Current and Chicago Red Stars close out their regular season this Sunday against one another in a highly-anticipated matchup with plenty on the line. Records, impressive statistics, and a promise for a feisty showdown between two teams that don't shy away from attacking are on the line in the Sunday showdown. Indeed, in their last five matchups, these teams averaged 5.4 goals per game, and that says one thing: if Kansas City and Chicago meet, be ready for an explosion.

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Kansas City Current: Historic Attack and Shot for New Record

Kansas City Current comes into this matchup with tons of momentum, boasting one of the best seasons in franchise history. Having scored 54 goals this season, they have already tied the NWSL record for most goals scored in a single season set by North Carolina Courage back in 2019. All Kansas City needs is one more goal against Chicago, and a new league benchmark will be set.

While the attack has shone bright, the defense must not be left out for praise of a job well done. Over the last seven matches, Kansas City have conceded a mere two goals, a far cry from last season when the backline was often the scapegoat. Since her arrival in July, defender Alana Cook has been instrumental in solidifying the rear guard, ensuring things are kept tight. Today, Kansas City can show attacking strength with defensive solidity-the latter going to make them really hard to beat.

Temwa Chawinga and her influence in Kansas City

A lot of Kansas City's historic season has to do with forward Temwa Chawinga. While leading the league, she has 20 goals; that broke the NWSL single-season goal record set by Sam Kerr. Adding goals and assists, 26 goal contributions firmly plant her at the top of this category in league history. Her consistent and opportunistic performance has turned Kansas City into an offensive juggernaut and put her name into the mix for the NWSL MVP award.

This season is not about the numbers for Chawinga. The Malawian can be found in the DNA of this team: bold, technical, and hungry for goals that keep the opponent on full alert. The coach and fans do know that with her on the field, Kansas City always has an ace up their sleeve, ready to surprise.

Chicago Red Stars: Resilience and Mallory Swanson's Strength

On the other side, Chicago Red Stars come into the match with a combination of hope and challenge. While the team lags from Kansas City in points and goals, Chicago can't be underestimated either. Leading Chicago, the Red Stars have been consistent with Mallory Swanson, one of the standout forwards who is also a familiar name in the U.S. Women's National Team, leading Chicago with seven goals and four assists this season.

Swanson opened the scoring when Chicago visited Kansas City in June and had the assist on the 90-minute equalizer. That match proved Chicago can match Kansas City's pace, and behind some difficulties, the Red Stars have the potential to surprise. This Sunday, at home, Chicago will try to rebuild confidence and, who knows, find that momentum they need going into the playoffs.

Keeping Score: Scenarios for Kansas City, Chicago

Putting the on-field rivalry aside, Sunday's matchup does carry some playoff weight. A win from Kansas City could lock up the second overall seed, pending results from Washington Spirit and Gotham FC. A draw may slot Kansas City into third or fourth - depending on other results.

The game is equally crucial to Chicago Red Stars, who, although having qualified for the playoffs already, will be awaiting their final position with interest come the result on Sunday. A win like this against Kansas City will do so much in rounding off the season, taking into consideration their good home record and their recent fight.