Dramatic draw and decisive penalties: Orlando Pride shine in the Summer Cup

Orlando Pride showed once again why they are a resilient and determined team. In a match full of ups and downs against CF Monterrey Femenil, the Pride drew 2-2 and won 5-4 on penalties. It was a display of courage, skill and determination that made the fans excited and proud.

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The game got off to a tense start, with the Pride needing to recover from a goal conceded before half-time. CF Monterrey's Nicole Perez took a long free-kick which, after a header from Merel Van Dongen, found Christina Burkenroad well placed to open the scoring. It was a blow for the Pride, who were trying to find their rhythm on the pitch.

In the second half, the Pride came out with a new energy. Alex Kerr, showing why she's one of the team's promising youngsters, received a precise ball from Kylie Strom, dribbled past the opposition defense and shot firmly to tie the game. It was Kerr's first professional goal, a moment she certainly won't soon forget.

But CF Monterrey didn't give up. In the 61st minute, Diana Evangelista found Rebeca Bernal, who curled a shot into the top corner, retaking the lead for the Mexican side. The Pride fans were apprehensive, but the team didn't lose confidence. In the closing stages, substitute Julie Doyle, who came on in the second half, showed her worth. After a well-worked move that started with Summer Yates and passed through Celia, Doyle was in the right place to redirect a low cross and secure the equalizer. It was a crucial goal that took the match to a penalty shoot-out.

On penalties, Sofia Manner, making her debut for the Pride, was the hero. With a crucial save and nerves of steel, she helped ensure the team's victory. All five Pride players converted their shots, sealing the 5-4 victory.

Coach Seb Hines praised the team's determination, highlighting their ability to respond after conceding goals. “We talked about the kind of team we want to be when we're behind. In the second half, we played very differently, controlled the game more, made accurate passes and used the midfield effectively,” said Hines.

This win was a perfect example of how Orlando Pride are evolving. Even with several debuts in the team, such as Sofia Manner, Evelina Duljan and Mariana Larroquette, the team showed cohesion and fighting spirit. The performance of players like Alex Kerr and Julie Doyle was also a positive sign for the future.

With this victory, Pride gains confidence for the next challenges. The purple team is in third place in group E, with three points, one less than Racing Louisville and North Carolina Courage, first and second respectively.