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Kansas City Current in decisive duel against Tigres UANL for top spot in Group C

Unbeaten and with confidence high, Current needs a win to secure a place in the Summer Cup semifinals

By Izabelle Franca

Jul 27, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Current midfielder Debinha (99) play the ball in the second half against Pachuca at CPKC Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 27, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Current midfielder Debinha (99) play the ball in the second half against Pachuca at CPKC Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports / Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
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Kansas City Current have been dominating the NWSL x Liga MX Femenil Summer Cup with an overwhelming performance, reflecting their dominant form throughout the regular season. They've won every group game so far, amassing a comfortable goal difference and carrying a lot of confidence into the decisive clash against LIGA MX Femenil giants Tigres UANL. This decisive clash takes place on Thursday, August 1, at the CPKC Stadium.

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In the last round, Current showed their strength by beating Pachuca 3-0, with a brilliant performance from Debinha, who scored twice and set the tone for the game. Kristen Hamilton also shone by scoring and assisting, showing that Current's attack is in perfect harmony. This game saw Current become the only team in Group C to go through the first two matches unbeaten, solidifying their position at the top.

On the other side, Tigres UANL are facing enormous pressure after losing 2-1 to Houston Dash. The Mexican side, despite having scored 5 goals so far in the tournament, need a win against Current to keep their hopes alive. The team led by Jacqueline Ovalle, a skillful striker and the club's top scorer with 105 goals in seven seasons, will have to overcome Current's solid defense, which has only conceded one goal in the entire tournament. Striker Alison Gonzalez, who scored in the defeat against the Dash, will also be a key player for the Tigers.

Kansas City Current's defense, led by veteran Stine Ballisager, has been an insurmountable wall. Ballisager, who recently helped Denmark qualify for the 2025 UEFA Championship Tournament, returned to the club and brought a calming presence that was essential to the defensive performance. Current's young back line blocked any attempt by Pachuca to attack, and that solidity will be crucial against Tigres' powerful attack.

Current need a win or even a penalty shootout to secure top spot in the group and advance to the semifinals. A one-goal defeat could still be enough, as long as Houston don't overcome the goal difference. This scenario puts extra pressure on the players, who need to go into the game with the mindset that every goal counts.

On the other hand, Tigres UANL cannot be underestimated. Under Spanish coach Milagros Martinez, the team has enjoyed consistent success, including a sixth league title in 2023. With experienced and talented players like Ovalle and Robles, Tigres have the potential to spring a surprise and turn the game around. The team knows it needs to attack from the start and exploit any gaps in Current's defense.

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