Page 89 - Soccer360 Issue 107

DID YOU KNOW?
The Orlando Pride is the only NWSL Original Team To Not Have Made an NWSL playoff appearance. Should the Orlando Pride secure a playoff spot they will become the last NWSL original team to make an appearance in the league’s second season. Alongside the Houston Dash, there are only two NWSL original teams that have yet
to make an appearance
in the NWSL Championship.
Here are some of the storylines to keep an eye on in the final weeks of the season.
10. CHAMPION OF NORTH AMERICA
In addition to the NWSL Championship and Supporters Shield being on the line, this year, the first-ever NWSL x Liga MX Femenil Super Cup winner will be crowned between NJ/NY Gotham FC and the Kansas City Current. The two teams clinched their spots in the final on October 25 at San Antonio thanks to each having won their semifinal match in shutout fashion. NJ/NY Gotham FC knocked off Angel City FC 1-0 while the Current downed the NC Courage.
9. BETHUNE BRINGS THE PAIN
After a couple of rough seasons, the Washington Spirit find themselves right in the hunt for an NWSL Playoff spot, looking to add a second Championship crown
to their effort in 2021. A major reason for
their return to form has been the play of attacking midfielder Croix Bethune. In just her first season Bethune has made a name for herself for her relentless work through the middle resulting in her earning three consecutive of the month honors from March/April to June. Her experience as an alternate for the United States at the Paris Olympics will undoubtedly help her prepare for the NWSL’s second season.
8. A SARR IS BORN
In addition to Bethune the Spirit has
also received a boost in the attack from Ouleymata Sarr, who joined the club last year from Paris St. Germain. Despite the midseason shuffle, Sarr has shined for the Spirit including ending Gotham’s nine-game unbeaten run in June delivering a critical goal in their 2-0 victory against their hated rivals.
DID YOU KNOW?
Sam Kerr Currently Holds The Single-Season Scoring Record With 18 Goals- The Australian international buried 18 goals in 2019 for NJ/NY Gotham FC and for many years was the standard- bearer for scoring excellence. But her record may be shattered this year with Barbra Banda of the Orlando Pride (12 goals through the Olympic break) and Temwa Chawinga of the KC Current (12 goals) both zeroing in on her mark with plenty of matches to go.
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