Orlando Pride loses winning streak, but unbeaten run in NWSL continues

Orlando Pride is having a fantastic season in the NWSL in 2024. They are the team to beat. Although their eight-game winning streak ended against San Diego, there is no cause for concern, as the draw at Snapdragon Stadium extended the Pride's overall unbeaten streak to 12 games.

In a well-executed counterattack, Banda advanced down the right side and carried the ball into the box. Despite being surrounded by two defenders, he delivered a well-placed mid-height pass to Julie Doyle, who scored with an acrobatic finish in the first half. However, the defense faltered, conceding an equalizer in the 68th minute. Jaedyn Shaw crossed the ball, and Anna Moorhouse deflected it with one hand. The ball bounced off the far post, and with no one there to clear it, Makenzy Doniak struck a low shot that deflected, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance to react.

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The result is not the end of the world. Orlando Pride remains in first place with 28 points, three ahead of Kansas City Current. Obviously, a win would have created a bigger lead, but the opponent was tough, as Seb Hines noted: "Overall, I think it’s a good point away from home. It also keeps our unbeaten run going. Disappointing to draw, but seeing the game out and picking up a point on the road is pleasing for the team and the players."

The NWSL season is still in its early stages. The Pride will have a week to prepare for their next game and for the players to get back into rhythm after the international break. The team’s mission is to defend their unbeaten streak in another away game. The next challenger will be the North Carolina Courage, currently holding the last playoff spot, with only one win in five games.

The Pride couldn’t be very dominant against the San Diego Wave. The team was more efficient offensively only in the first half. In another away game, accumulating points will be crucial to maintaining momentum, but Seb Hines will need to ensure the team plays well in both halves and avoids giving up space, as happened against the Wave, who dominated offensively in both halves. The match against North Carolina Courage will be next Saturday, June 15th. The Pride needs to maintain their high standards and have more possession to come away with a good result.

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