The Washington Spirit and Kansas City Current are set to face off in an exciting NWSL matchup on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at Audi Field in Washington, D.C.. Both teams are coming off strong performances in their season openers, making this a highly anticipated clash.
Team Overview
- Washington Spirit (1-0-0): The Spirit began their season with a 2-1 victory over the Houston Dash. They showcased their attacking prowess early, with Makenna Morris and Ashley Hatch finding the back of the net in the first half. The Spirit’s defense held firm in the second half to secure the win. Washington has been a dominant force at Audi Field, turning it into a fortress last season, and they will look to continue that trend in their home opener.
- Kansas City Current (1-0-0): The Current also started their season on a high note, defeating the Orlando Pride 3-1. Temwa Chawinga, the reigning NWSL MVP, opened the scoring within the first four minutes, while Michelle Cooper and Debinha added to the tally. Kansas City boasts a balanced squad with a potent attack and a solid midfield, making them a formidable opponent.
Key Players to Watch
- Washington Spirit:
- Makenna Morris: The second-year pro scored in the opener and has been in excellent form, with four goals in her last four regular-season appearances.
- Ashley Hatch: The forward broke the league record for most regular-season goals since 2017 with her strike against Houston. Her finishing ability will be crucial for the Spirit.
- Casey Krueger: The defender’s overlapping runs and crosses add an extra dimension to Washington’s attack.
- Kansas City Current:
- Temwa Chawinga: The league’s MVP and Golden Boot winner in 2024, Chawinga is a constant threat in the final third.
- Debinha: The Brazilian playmaker scored in the opener and is known for her creativity and ability to dictate the tempo of the game.
- Claire Hutton: The Rookie of the Year finalist provides energy and vision in midfield, complementing Kansas City’s attacking style.
Recent Form
- Washington Spirit: The Spirit have carried their momentum from last season, where they finished as runners-up in the NWSL Championship. Their attacking depth and defensive organization make them one of the league’s top contenders.
- Kansas City Current: Kansas City has been in excellent form under head coach Vlatko Andonovski, who led them to a club-record 16 regular-season wins last year. Their attacking trio of Chawinga, Debinha, and Cooper is among the most dangerous in the league.
Injury Updates
- Washington Spirit: The Spirit will be without Andi Sullivan due to injury, and Hal Hershfelt, Courtney Brown, and Heather Stainbrook are doubtful for the match.
- Kansas City Current: Kansas City enters the match with a relatively healthy squad, giving them an edge in squad depth.
Game Dynamics
Washington’s home advantage and attacking depth make them slight favorites in this matchup. The Spirit will look to control possession and create chances through Hatch and Morris, while Kansas City will rely on Chawinga and Debinha to exploit any defensive lapses. The midfield battle between Claire Hutton and Washington’s Narumi Miura could be pivotal in determining the outcome.
