Kansas City Current beats Angel City 1-0 in extra time to reach NWSL semifinals

Kansas City Current advanced to the NWSL semifinals on Saturday with a narrow 1-0 win over Angel City FC at CPKC Stadium after an extra time penalty kick. Michelle Cooper scored the game-winning goal just five minutes into extra time by converting a penalty after the referee whistled Angel City goalkeeper Angelina Anderson for a pushing foul during a set piece. The victory avenged last year's home quarterfinal loss for the Current and extended their home unbeaten streak to 33 matches, while snapping Angel City's 10-game unbeaten run. Both teams finished the regular season tied for the most goals scored with 54 each, but Saturday's quarterfinal turned into a tight defensive battle over 120 minutes. Current goalkeeper Lorena and Angel City's Anderson both made key saves in regulation to keep the match scoreless before the decisive penalty broke the deadlock. Angel City's midseason turnaround under interim head coach Leif Gunnar Smerud included a summer trade for Ally Sentnor and solid performances from defender Savy King, team captain Sarah Gorden, and assist leader Evelyn Shores. Despite a valiant defensive effort and several dangerous chances, Angel City exited the postseason.

Context

Playoff soccer matches in the NWSL frequently become tight, low-scoring affairs as top teams tighten their defenses in elimination games. The Kansas City Current will now face the winner of the Gotham FC and Seattle Reign quarterfinal match as the tournament heads toward the November semifinals.