Washington Spirit shines in attack, but needs to strengthen its defense

Spirit have one of the best attacks in the NWSL, but need to adjust their defense, as they've only managed to keep a clean sheet once before
Ouleymata Sarr
Ouleymata Sarr / Brad Smith/ISI Photos/GettyImages
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The Washington Spirit has been standing out in the NWSL with an impressive offensive performance and remarkable consistency. The team has only lost one of their last five games and just two of their last ten, with defeats against the Portland Thorns and the Orlando Pride. Currently, the Spirit sits in third place in the standings with 24 points, just one behind Kansas City and three behind the leaders, Pride.

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The offensive power of the Spirit is undeniable. With 25 goals scored in 10 games, the team has an average of 2.3 goals per match, making them the second highest scorer in the league. The team shows a preference for finding the net within the opponent's area, demonstrating a sharp and effective finishing ability.

French forward Ouleymata Sarr is one of the key pieces in this powerful attack. Starting in every game, Sarr has scored six goals, leading the team and ranking as the third highest scorer in the league. Her ability to move outside the box and contribute to ball recovery adds an extra dynamic to the Spirit's offensive game.

Another fundamental figure in the team is Croix Bethune. With eight assists, Bethune leads the NWSL in this aspect, also standing out in ball recovery. Along with Trinity Rodman, Bethune is one of the players who creates the most opportunities, using her decisive passes to open up spaces and set up dangerous plays.

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However, not everything is perfect for the Spirit. The team needs to adjust its defense, as they have only managed to keep a clean sheet once. Defensive solidity is crucial for turning good campaigns into successful seasons, and this is an aspect that the Spirit needs to improve if they want to contend for the title.

The Washington Spirit's next challenge is on Saturday, June 8th, against the Utah Royals, the bottom-placed team in the league. This match offers an excellent opportunity for the Spirit to increase their offensive power and perhaps address their defensive deficiencies against an opponent going through a tough phase in the NWSL.

If the Spirit can balance their lethal attack with a more solid defense, the prospects for the team this season are extremely promising.

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