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Two players responsible for Kansas City Current's comeback win in the NWSL

Chawinga extends her goal streak to eight games as Schult keeps a clean sheet in a 1-0 victory

By Izabelle Franca

Kansas City Current forward Temwa Chawinga (6) celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal against Utah Royals FC during the first half at CPKC Stadium
Kansas City Current forward Temwa Chawinga (6) celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal against Utah Royals FC during the first half at CPKC Stadium / Kylie Graham-Imagn Images
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The Kansas City Current proved to be a really strong competitor in the NWSL, defeating the Utah Royals 1-0 after an emotionally charged and balanced game. That victory managed to keep the Current on top of the table, their seal amongst the League's finest teams. Temwa Chawinga sealed the deal with her goal, supported by goalkeeper Almuth Schult with a clean sheet at CPKC Stadium.

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The Magic of Chawinga and the NWSL Record

Chawinga did what she's done all season: score clutch goals. In the 47', she capitalized on a blistering counterattack started by Lo'eau LaBonta, sprinting behind Utah's defense. In front of goalkeeper Mandy Haught, Chawinga kept her cool and slotted the ball in the back of the net. It was her 15th goal of the regular season, tying the franchise record for goals in a season set by LaBonta.

Moreover, Chawinga set a new benchmark as the only player in the NWSL to score in eight straight matches. She joins the elite group of athletes that have reached this milestone and firmly plants her name among the league's greats.

Schult's Impenetrable Defense

When Current has a lethal offense, they boast an equally fatal defense spearheaded by Almuth Schult. The German goalkeeper was key in keeping Kansas City's lead, particularly in the first half when the Utah Royals pressed harder. In the 12-minute mark, Schult made her first big save when she blocked off a dangerous shot by Mina Tanaka. And that was just the beginning.

Utah fashioned several gilt-edged opportunities but Schult proved why she's one of the best keepers in the league with a spate of spectacular saves. In the 40th minute, she made the vital stop on a shot by Cloé Lacasse that could have turned the game around. The consistency of Schult in goal provided the security Kansas City needed to hold onto their lead until the final whistle.

The Return of Bia Zaneratto

Another bright spot in this match for Kansas City was the return of Bia Zaneratto, who stepped onto the pitch after 71 days out due to injury. The Brazilian forward came on at 72 minutes, showing she was back to form by holding the ball up in attack and contributing to the team's offensive efforts.

What's Next

With this victory, the Kansas City Current cements its status as one of the premier outfits in the NWSL, continuing to show strength in both attack and defense. This squad for Coach Vlatko Andonovski increasingly looks ready for whatever comes next. Utah Royals have to regroup and find newer ways to get into winning ways.

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