San Diego Wave FC suffered its second loss in a row after a 2-0 defeat to the Kansas City Current on Saturday at Snapdragon Stadium.
Kansas City almost took the lead in the ninth minute when forward Temwa Chawinga caught the defenders by surprise on a breakaway opportunity, but was ultimately denied by goalkeeper Kailen Sheridan.
The visitors did not have to wait much longer to take the lead, which came courtesy of Brazilian striker Debinha in the 16th minute on her right-footed shot that beat Sheridan. This was Debinha’s 50th career goal in the NWSL, making her the fifth player in league history to record 50 goals and 25 assists, joining Lynn Biyendolo (previously Williams), Alex Morgan, Jessica McDonald, and Megan Rapinoe.
Kansas City extended the lead in the 25th minute when midfielder Lo’eau LaBonta converted from the penalty spot moments after Wave defender Kristen McNabb was called for a handball inside the box.
The Wave made some adjustments at halftime to give the team more scoring opportunities, eventually bringing in Melanie Barcenas, Kimmi Ascanio, and Adriana Leon. Barcenas found Leon on a quick pass in the 72nd minute that goalkeeper Lorena had to intervene on to prevent the goal. The Wave continued putting the pressure on in the final minutes, but to no avail as Kansas City was able to defend just enough to keep the shutout victory.
SD Wave is in ninth place in the standings with four points over four matches, while the Current remains in second place and tied in points with the top-seeded Orlando Pride. The Wave now goes on a two-game road trip starting on April 19 to take on Racing Louisville, followed by a meeting with the Chicago Stars on April 26, before returning to Snapdragon Stadium to face Bay FC.
Photo courtesy: San Diego Wave