Orlando Pride defeat Angel City FC 3-0 on final night of pride month
While the outcome of this match was probably expected to land Orlando’s way, the mechanics of how the game played hardly felt like a dominant performance. Instead the match was a highlight of a theme that is recurring more and more in the NWSL: it is really hard to stop counter attacking sides.
On paper ACFC did everything right with near even possession, shots on goal, pass accuracy, and an overall force that felt poised to score at any moment. There was only one issue: the goals never came. Instead, Orlando proved once again the effectiveness of a talented front line led by Adriana that sliced through the midfield on the counterattack with utter ease. Granted, ACFC made their fair share of defensive mistakes, with a notable one resulting in the final goal that settled the rout for Orlando leaving ACFC with a 3-0 pondering of where they go from here.
In the post-game interview, Becki Tweed, ACFC’s head coach reflected about the need for her side to show more ruthlessness in the final third with plentiful chances to turn the tide of matches this season. It will take a resurgence of confidence to turn the tide of ACFC’s season.
For Orlando, this was another example of why this club has arrived as the front runner for the title this season. With a potent offense, and tactics that prey on weaknesses in the midfield, this club is destined for greatness in this league. It is little wonder that they stand undefeated this season.
