Kansas City Current closed the regular season with style, defeating the Chicago Red Stars 3-1 to lock down fourth place in the standings while leaving fans salivating for the playoffs. What really makes the victory special is the fact that the team finished the season with a record for most goals in one regular season at 57, beating North Carolina Courage's previous mark from 2019.
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Kansas City Current Break Records in Season-Ending Match
This season, there were high hopes for Kansas City Current, but what transpired on the pitch went beyond perhaps what most had hoped for. Stringing together win after win and having a tenacious team that refuses to back down, Current amassed 57 goals in 26 games of play-the all-time league record. A defining mark in a season of surprise, each game felt like yet another step toward something more.
Head coach Vlatko Andonovski underlined the decisive role of the forwards, but most of all of the team's versatility in finding solutions to beat the strong defensive systems put in place to neutralize Temwa Chawinga. In front of a rearguard that worked against their top scorer, Current proved they have a roster that can threaten from many angles, with forwards capable of changing the pace of play and creating opportunities.
Decisive Goals and Key Players on the Field
It was a match that testified to organization and precision. During the first 33 minutes of a game against the Chicago Red Stars, Current let it be known they were in charge, chalking up three goals and setting a game cadence that would last throughout the match.
The first goal came at minute 23, courtesy of a well-placed pass from Nichelle Prince to Michelle Cooper. That fast, efficient play opened the scoring and demonstrated the collective work which has made the difference throughout the season. It wasn't just another goal for Cooper-the team's 55th of the season-officially broke the record and marked their place in league history.
Just three minutes later, Debinha doubled Kansas City's advantage. In a constant, beautiful play, the Brazilian took the pass from Vanessa DiBernardo and sent it squarely to the back of the net. The third goal, at minute 33rd, came from Prince, who managed to find an opening in the defense and shot accurately.
These plays showcase the breadth of talent on Kansas City's roster, with goals coming courtesy of individual efforts and team play combined.
Current's Defense: Steady Until the Final Whistle
Kansas City's defense kept visitors from goals in the first half, conceding one in the second. In the 52nd minute, Ally Schlegel scored for Chicago, but KC managed to hold tight and keep scores level at the final whistle. The defensive solidity Current have presented all season has been an important link to sustain attacking performances, building up a complete team prepared for even greater challenges.
Temwa Chawinga: Golden Boot of the Season
Although she did not play in yesterday's final game, Temwa Chawinga won for herself the NWSL Golden Boot, with 20 goals this season. This title symbolizes the central role Chawinga has played within Current's campaign-her ability to deliver with precision and vision. Her leadership brings added anticipation for the playoffs, where her presence is surely going to be a big plus.
What's Next for Kansas City Current
With the victory against the Chicago Red Stars, Current wrap up the regular season in the fourth spot and into the 2024 NWSL playoffs. They will face North Carolina Courage in the quarterfinals-a match predicted to be among the hottest this season. The city will also see Kansas City Current host its first home playoff game at the newly opened CPKC Stadium and make its way further into the competition.
The much-cerebrated Andonovski has been calculated and cautious with his plans, knowing that playoffs are a different stage; this demands mental and physical readiness. With home support backing Current, plus the record season they have built, sets them in good stead, but every game presents a different challenge.