In a dazzling display of offensive prowess, the Kansas City Current emerged victorious in the inaugural NWSL x Liga MX Femenil Summer Cup, claiming their first-ever title since joining the league in 2021. The thrilling 2-0 win over NJ/NY Gotham FC was powered by a sensational first-half brace from forward Temwa Chawinga, who continues to cement her status as one of the most lethal strikers in women’s soccer.
Chawinga’s Record-Breaking Performance
Temwa Chawinga, the Malawian sensation, once again proved why she is the talk of the town in the NWSL. Her two goals in the Summer Cup final not only secured the title for Kansas City but also marked her fourth brace of the season across all competitions. Chawinga’s remarkable tally now stands at an astonishing 20 goals in just 25 games, shattering the league’s single-season scoring record with one regular-season match still to play.
The 25-year-old striker opened the scoring in the 25th minute, showcasing her trademark speed and composure as she raced behind Gotham’s defense and delicately chipped the ball over the outstretched arms of goalkeeper Cassie Miller. Twelve minutes later, Chawinga struck again, this time benefiting from the creative interplay between midfielders Claire Hutton and Lo’eau LaBonta. Despite replays suggesting a potential offside infraction, the goal stood, as video review was not utilized in the Summer Cup.
A Historic Victory for the Current
The Summer Cup triumph marks a significant milestone for the Kansas City Current, a franchise still in its infancy. Established in 2021, the team has quickly risen through the ranks, currently sitting fourth in the NWSL regular-season standings, just one point behind their final opponents, Gotham FC. The decision to field a near-full-strength starting lineup, including the talismanic Chawinga, underscores the importance head coach Matt Potter placed on securing this prestigious title.
This victory means everything to us. It’s a testament to the hard work, dedication, and belief within this group. We’ve come a long way in a short time, and this is just the beginning.
– Kansas City Current captain, Desiree Scott
Gotham FC’s Valiant Effort Falls Short
While Gotham FC dominated possession throughout the match, holding over 60% of the ball, they struggled to translate that control into meaningful chances. Hampered by injuries, international absences, and personal commitments, the New Jersey-based side was forced to sign seven national team replacement players just to field a complete gameday roster. Among the new faces was 14-year-old prodigy McKenna “Mak” Whitham, who became the youngest player to feature in an NWSL match.
Despite the makeshift nature of their lineup, Gotham FC put up a spirited fight, with veteran players like Mana Shim, a key figure in last year’s NWSL Championship run, leading by example. However, their efforts ultimately proved futile, as they failed to register a single shot on target, a testament to the resolute defending and midfield dominance of the Kansas City Current.
The Future Looks Bright for the NWSL
The success of the inaugural NWSL x Liga MX Femenil Summer Cup highlights the growing popularity and competitive nature of women’s soccer in North America. The tournament, which featured all 14 NWSL teams and six teams from Mexico’s top flight, provided a platform for emerging talents to showcase their skills and for established stars like Temwa Chawinga to further enhance their reputations.
As the NWSL regular season approaches its thrilling conclusion, with Kansas City Current and Gotham FC separated by just a single point in the standings, fans can look forward to more exhilarating matches and the potential for these two sides to meet again in the playoffs. With the league continuing to attract top international talent and nurture homegrown stars, the future of women’s soccer in the United States looks brighter than ever.
Key Takeaways from the Summer Cup Final
- Temwa Chawinga’s goal-scoring prowess continues to set new standards in the NWSL
- Kansas City Current’s first-ever title is a testament to their rapid rise and potential for future success
- Gotham FC’s resilience in the face of adversity showcases the depth and determination within the squad
- The NWSL x Liga MX Femenil Summer Cup highlights the growing strength and popularity of women’s soccer in North America
As the NWSL regular season reaches its climax, the Kansas City Current will look to carry the momentum from their Summer Cup triumph into their final match and the upcoming playoffs. With Temwa Chawinga leading the charge and a talented supporting cast around her, the team has their sights set on even greater glory in the months to come.
