WEBVTT
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Hey there, KC Current fans.
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Welcome once again to the Current Situation.
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I'm Dave Bort alongside Jilly and Carol Latrinko.
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Thanks so much for tuning in.
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We have a huge KC Current win to talk about.
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I don't know if we could say it's the biggest win of the year.
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It kind of feels that way, but it's we've been in playoff mode for about a month now.
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Two to one over Washington.
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It wasn't smooth sailing all the way.
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The current gave up a goal again first.
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The tenth time in 15 home games this year, they've conceded first.
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They're undefeated in those 10 games, which is a crazy stat.
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Then Kansas City equalized one minute after conceding, and then three minutes after conceding, they had the lead.
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I mean, it was a wild game, but more importantly, a huge win, two to one over Washington.
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And it just felt like a magical night.
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It felt like a playoff preview.
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It felt like a championship preview for me.
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Uh it was wonderful.
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And I felt like this was an amazing opportunity for Kansas City.
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They're catching fire when it when it matters most.
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And this is proof of that.
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And again, uh taking down an opponent like Washington, who has been successful on the road, uh, who has amazing players on their team when they have been in good form, that was a huge, huge result for Kansas City.
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Three big points, and we talk about sometimes it feels like a six-point win.
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That would be one of these matches for sure.
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But again, uh just the electric environment was that the fans brought, the players met that.
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They matched that environment on the pitch.
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And I'm so excited for Lola Bonta, for her goal.
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It was a huge response.
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Like you said, I think we said 79 seconds after Washington scored.
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Lola Bonta's right there.
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And then again, Vanessa DiBernardo on the second, the the game-winning goal, um, amazing energy, amazing win for Kansas City.
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I know last week we couldn't say Kansas City was the hottest team in the league, but now San Diego's winning streak has come to an end.
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The current has four straight wins, the most in the league, only one loss in their last nine games.
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I think you can make a case Kansas City is the hottest team in the league right now.
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Yeah, and and it's it's the time to be the hottest team, right?
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Um I don't think that Kansas City has been this high in the standings since match week one.
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So they are peaking at the right time.
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I know we say that kind of casually here and there, but Chris Armist is doing everything correct to correctly to prepare this team to head into playoffs on a high wave of momentum.
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Uh they're coming in feeling confident.
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They're coming in after matches where they're scoring multiple goals with multiple players involved in each goal.
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This team is on fire, and again, it's it's right at the exact time they want to be.
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You mentioned just 79 seconds between the current conceding, going down one-nil, and then equalizing through Lola Bonta.
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How important was that that they were able to equalize so quickly?
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I think that was a massive goal.
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I think it, and I think I said this on the broadcast, but for me, this is who Lola Bonta is.
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She made a statement.
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She said, I will take the team and put it on my back, and I will put this goal in the back of the net.
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It was a it was a gorgeous shot, first of all.
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Uh, but the way that she was able to get her body over this, get all the power, strike through this ball, it did take a deflection, and it still was not stoppable by the goalkeeper McKeever.
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Uh, everything about this goal for me was Lola Bonta as a leader saying, Hey girls, we're still in this.
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Uh, here we go.
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Um, and just starting just the response, which obviously resulted eventually resulted in the win.
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And just two minutes after Lowe's equalizer, Vanessa Di Bernardo got the game winner, as you mentioned, a lot of things going on there.
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It was Vanessa's first goal since she came back from maternity leave.
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It was her first goal since the playoff loss at Orlando in November of 2024, ends up being the game winner.
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Croy Bethune with a very unselfish pass, she gets the assist.
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It's a new single season record, 11 assists on the season, and a new record for most game-winning assists in a single season.
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So Bethune sets a record, Vanessa gets in the scorebook again, kind of a historic goal.
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Oh, it's huge.
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And for Croy Bethune to do this against her former club, that for me is a huge piece of this story.
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It is a player who decided to choose herself and make a move and go somewhere else where she felt would be a better fit for her, and she left a great situation in Washington and she did amazing things there.
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She was rookie of the year, midfielder of the year, we saw that.
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Um, but she chose to come to Kansas City and she was very transparent about multiple reasons why.
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And then unfortunately, she did take a little uh an injury, you know, she missed a couple matches.
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But look what this player has done.
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Not even playing the same amount of matches as everyone else in the league.
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She has set a new two new records, like you just said.
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Um she's just the assist queen.
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That's just forever and always I feel who she's going to be, the creativity she brings, um, the selfless play that she brings, this exact assist is is a really good representation of how unselfish she is because she could have taken a shot.
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It may have been challenging for McKeever, it may have snuck in.
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However, she knew she had the run of Di Bernardo and she played that box ball right, excuse me, that square ball right across the box, and Vanessa Di Bernardo knocked it home.
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So an incredible record, two records for Croix Bethune, very well deserved.
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And I don't think she's done yet, I'll be honest.
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I think we're gonna see more in the postseason.
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We knew before kickoff that Kansas City had clinched a playoff berth because of results Friday night, but we also knew that Angel City had jumped ahead of Kansas City in the standings.
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So if Kansas City didn't win, they were not gonna be in the top four, which means they're not in line to host a home playoff game.
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The current did win, they got the full three points, they're back ahead of Angel City, although just one point ahead of Angel City, so the pressure is still on Kansas City to win the finale, which we'll talk about later in the show.
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But how big was it to get the win now?
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32 straight home games without a loss in the regular season, and to stay in that spot to have another home game first round of the playoffs?
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Yeah, it's it's it's everything right now.
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That's it's to the point where Kansas City, they've been through so much this season and uh a lot of ups, lots of lots of downs, I would say, and they fought their way back up.
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And look at where they stand now.
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They control their own destiny, and to your point, they're able to really do what their part to secure that home playoff match.
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And this stadium is a stadium that deserves to have playoff matches.
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These fans, this environment, uh, it is very unique, it is electric, all the adjectives I could possibly think of, uh, but it is a place where magic happens for Kansas City.
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So of course they want to be here to host a playoff match.
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And again, the scenario if the current wins at Racing Louisville, they're guaranteed to finish in the top four and host a home playoff game the weekend of November 5th, 6th, 7th here at CPKC Stadium.
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Uh there's still other scenarios they could host at home, but Angel City's got a home game.
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The current, obviously, going on the road, it's gonna be tough, but we'll preview more later.
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But Racing Louisville, you know, it's not the worst opponent.
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They're near the bottom of the table, they're coming off a 6-1 loss, they don't have much to play for.
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Kansas City's got everything to play for.
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Hopefully, they can keep this winning streak going.
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And for me, it's gonna be all about mentality for Kansas City.
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And so they just have to show up there, ready to take care of business, cannot take a break at all, and just go down there, do their thing, and bring home those three points.
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Excited to be joined now by Lisa Carla, one of the best analysts in the NWSL.
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Lisa, thanks for your time.
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How you been doing?
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Good.
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Dave and Jillian, I love this.
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I'm honored to be um on this podcast with you guys.
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So thank you so much.
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Two of the best that cover the game in Kansas City.
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And you guys, you do the current well.
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It's the fan base is very lucky to have you, and I'm even luckier to be here.
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So thank you.
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Oh, well, thanks for the kind words.
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And you're like I said, I'm in it.
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I think you're one of the best analysts and broadcasters that covers the league.
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So we appreciate your time.
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We know you have a busy schedule.
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And uh wanted to start kind of talking about the recent results here from the next to last week's week of the season.
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Lots of playoff implications.
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A lot of teams played this past week that were fighting for playoff positioning.
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Was kind of curious your take on what stood out to you about the results from this past week.
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I mean, we never know what the heck we're gonna get in this league.
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That's like the best part about it.
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And I we got that again this past weekend.
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I think the win for Kansas City over Washington 2-1 was really, really big.
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Like that was a really big win and kind of cemented the the run that Kansas City can go on now in the postseason because right these last three, four weeks leading up to the playoffs is a really big indicator of what teams are going to look like in the postseason.
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It's like a lead-in for that.
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You look at Angel City, they're a team that's been on an absolute hot streak, and they they did it again, picking up another win this weekend in LA.
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But guys, when you're when you have seven goals in a game, you gotta get some shout-outs.
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And Denver with a 6-1 win over Louisville, holy cow! I was getting alerts for that game, and it was like goal, goal, goal, goal, another one.
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It's been so impressive to watch an expansion team in Denver Summit be as explosive as they have been in front of goal.
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Or they have like over 50 goals this year, and they haven't even clinched a playoff spot yet.
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But that game against Louisville proved that they want to be a team that's not only in the playoffs, but contending for a championship and and making a run for it, or they're gonna make it really, really difficult for any other team to steal that last spot in the playoffs.
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So to me, it has to be that Denver game.
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I mean, watching Lindsay Heaps and Janine Sonis, they're they want this, they want this so bad for their hometown.
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Um, and you can really see it when the summit's on the pitch.
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Yeah, it's so exciting, and I love that you brought up the hometown players.
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I think it is so cool.
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And specifically their relationship of when they were playing, you know, youth play, club play together when they were young, and now they get to do it for um their their home team, which I think is so cool.
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I know I was shocked by the San Diego match.
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Um, I know Dave's been mentioning the Angel City is just on fire right now.
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There's so many teams right now that have captured our attention.
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Um, what would you say that really is important for teams as they get into the playoffs?
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Like, what is separating the best teams from the teams that are still trying to fight into the table?
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Yeah, well, there's three of them, right, that are still looking for that final spot: Seattle, North Carolina, and Denver fighting for one more postseason position.
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Um, which, like, God, thank God we get such a fun decision day.
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I love that.
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But it's it's a little bit of like the culminate culmination of the season and how it comes down to right now.
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Because you could have done so well in March, April, May, June.
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But if you didn't carry that through to the second half of the season or even the last two months, it what are you doing now?
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I mean, I think of a team like North Carolina Courage.
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Five weeks ago, six weeks ago, we were like, yeah, they're gonna host a playoff spot.
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They'll be at the top of the table.
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They're just in cruise control.
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They've got the golden boot winner and Ashley Sanchez.
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Macklin knows what he's doing with this team and how to play them.
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And a couple weeks later, now they're on the outside looking in, and they have to play against Denver on the final day in order to get in.
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It is all about runs in this league and going on runs and picking up consecutive wins as you can.
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And like on the flip side of North Carolina, you look at Angel City six weeks ago.
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I was like, they're not making the playoffs, they're not going anywhere.
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Now they have the chance to host a playoff position because they've gone on a run and picked up points and wins over really big teams in their last couple of weeks Utah, Washington, Gotham.
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And it doesn't matter what Angel City was doing in the first half of the season.
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That was like three coaches ago at this point.
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It is all about what happens right now and how you finish the season and if you can go on runs and pick up any little momentum that you can.
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Because I mean, you two know anything can happen in this league.
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Anytime players step on the pitch, who knows what the outcome of the game is gonna be.
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It's all about between the ears for these players.
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If they can believe and if they can go out there and play a little bit consistent and build upon game after game after game towards like through September and now October, that's who's gonna be impressive throughout the postseason.
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And you obviously you look at the past, right?
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Gotham, when they've won their championships, doesn't matter if they're first or their eighth in the standings, they can go on and win because they've picked up momentum at that point in time.
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Well, and I agree with what you said earlier.
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It's and I don't want to be sounding negative to Seattle, but I think it would be way more exciting if Denver got in the playoffs instead of Seattle.
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And we'll see if it happens.
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Denver's three points back.
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They do have a huge advantage in goal differential, so if they can get caught up, they would have the tiebreaker.
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Uh, but looking at those final three, was kind of curious your pick on who would sneak in.
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Right now, Seattle is in the pole position.
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They have 44 points.
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North Carolina's behind the playoff line with 42, Denver with 41.
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Like you said, North Carolina and Denver play each other, which is fascinating.
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Seattle's at home against Orlando.
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Theoretically, on paper, it's a winnable game, but you never know what's going to happen in the NWSL.
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How do you see that last spot playing out?
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Steve, it's so true.
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Like, it's on theoretically, Seattle should be in the postseason, right?
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Like, if you're looking at this logically, you would say they just have to win.
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It could be one-nil and it doesn't matter, right?
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The goal differential doesn't matter.
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Seattle wins and they are in.
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It should be easy.
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I don't think it will be easy.
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I don't think it'll be easy for Seattle.
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They they are such a gritty team this year, and Laura Harvey knows how to win, and she knows how to put complete performances together or sneak out wins and be dangerous in the last 10 minutes of a game.
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But the way Orlando is playing right now, it is not going to be easy.
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And teams like Orlando want nothing more than to be a spoiler and a thorn in someone's side.
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So I think it's going to come down to the North Carolina-Denver game.
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I really do.
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Which makes it even more exciting on the final day.
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Um, but when you think about North Carolina-Denver, these are two teams that just score goals for fun.
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They talk about like a team that's entertaining to watch.
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It's like the Kansas City of last year.
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It's like they're going to score a lot of goals and they're going to be entertaining.
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They're going to concede some as well.
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If North Carolina can get in the transition, Denver's going to concede a couple goals, but can they outscore them at that point?
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It's it doesn't matter.
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So I think really do think it'll come down to the North Carolina-Denver matchup on decision day.
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What do you two think?
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With one spot left and three teams, who's snagging it?
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I love that you turned the tables here because we were just a little bit chatting about it.
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I do think it'd be way more exciting to see Denver, an expansion team.
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I'd love to see them claw their way in.
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And we're all about trying to build this geographical rivalry between Denver and Kansas City.
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So I think it'd be fun.
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Um, I don't know about you, Dave.
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That's who I hope gets in is Denver.
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I have no idea who's gonna get in.
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I mean, part of me thinks North Carolina, because they've had some chances lately and they haven't taken advantage and like this game's at home.
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Is this the time they finally take advantage and win the must-win game that gets them in?
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Yeah, it'll be really interesting.
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And when you have a player like Ashley Sanchez, that team, I mean, come on, she's done 20 goals, and her team can't even get them into the playoffs, so that would be hard.
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So for her, I would say, gosh, I would almost want it to be them.
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Um, but before we slip away, because we know that you've got a lot of things going on, you're gonna be a mama soon, so we don't want to take all your time.
00:15:08.320 --> 00:15:18.480
Um, but how important is it and how much fun is it for the fans that a proper decision day is back in NWSL and talk about, I mean, the perfect matchups this year, right?
00:15:19.279 --> 00:15:22.240
It is such a perfect storm that we get on decision day.
00:15:22.320 --> 00:15:25.039
I mean, we have the shield race at the top.
00:15:25.200 --> 00:15:34.799
Um, Gotham, they have to win on decision day, a spot that they could have clinched weeks ago at the top of the table when they ran away and they did they weren't able to do that.
00:15:34.960 --> 00:15:38.080
San Diego has just dropped points against Boston.
00:15:38.320 --> 00:15:40.879
They are going to do everything they can to win the shield.
00:15:41.120 --> 00:15:57.200
So the fact that we get a race at the top of the table and then a race right on the playoff line about who's going to come in it makes it that much more amazing, especially with the shield race, because the last, what is it, three seasons, two seasons, it's been an absolute runaway.
00:15:57.279 --> 00:16:02.799
With Kansas City last year, they clinched it weeks before decision day, Orlando the year before that.
00:16:03.039 --> 00:16:06.240
It there hasn't been a fight at the top.
00:16:06.320 --> 00:16:15.600
And now it comes down to the final day between Gotham and San Diego, who both teams who have been at the top of the table and both could say, hey, we really deserve to win it.
00:16:15.679 --> 00:16:21.120
But then with the top four spots on the line as well, who knows who's gonna host a playoff game?
00:16:21.200 --> 00:16:26.559
It's all to play for Washington, Kansas City, Angel City, Utah, Portland, Gotham, San Diego.
00:16:26.639 --> 00:16:28.480
There could all potentially host.
00:16:28.639 --> 00:16:30.960
Guys, like there's just so much at stake.
00:16:31.039 --> 00:16:36.399
And then, of course, who locks up that final spot between Seattle and North Carolina and Denver.
00:16:36.559 --> 00:16:45.840
Um, it is so exciting, and there's gonna be a lot to watch for, and goal differential comes into play, and it's a proper decision day that we didn't get last year.
00:16:45.919 --> 00:16:51.519
Um, and now it is back, and it just makes it so sweet with all the games kicking off at the same time.
00:16:51.679 --> 00:16:56.799
You know where I'll be on Sundays, locked in, locked in to watch all of this.
00:16:57.120 --> 00:17:01.120
Hey, Lisa, before we let you go, I do want to ask you about that race for the four seed.
00:17:01.279 --> 00:17:04.400
Because, like you said, there's a race at the top, there's a race at eight.
00:17:04.480 --> 00:17:09.039
Here in Kansas City, we're focused on the race for four because how good the current's been at home.
00:17:09.200 --> 00:17:12.960
Kansas City's in fourth, they only have one point lead on Angel City.
00:17:13.119 --> 00:17:14.960
Angel City's got Boston in LA.
00:17:15.359 --> 00:17:16.960
Kansas City's traveling to Louisville.
00:17:17.119 --> 00:17:19.359
Louisville's kind of in that position you mentioned with Orlando.
00:17:19.440 --> 00:17:20.640
They'd love to be a spoiler.
00:17:20.880 --> 00:17:22.000
How do you think it plays out?
00:17:22.079 --> 00:17:25.200
Who do you think ends up getting a home playoff game, Kansas City or Angel City?
00:17:25.519 --> 00:17:26.160
I know, guys.
00:17:26.319 --> 00:17:28.400
I can't I can't even make these predictions.
00:17:28.480 --> 00:17:29.440
I don't want to.
00:17:29.599 --> 00:17:33.920
I think that Boston is going to be a really hard challenge for Angel City to play against.
00:17:34.079 --> 00:17:34.480
I really do.
00:17:34.559 --> 00:17:40.240
I think the physicality that Boston brings is going to be a match for what Angel City wants to do.
00:17:40.400 --> 00:17:51.599
Um, but having I was at the match versus Angel City this past weekend in LA, and they are so calm, which is very intimidating.
00:17:51.759 --> 00:17:55.359
When you have a team that's like so riled up and ready to go, that's one thing.
00:17:55.440 --> 00:17:57.920
But Angel City is like, yeah, we're cool.
00:17:58.079 --> 00:17:58.640
We got this.
00:17:58.799 --> 00:17:59.279
Doesn't matter.
00:17:59.359 --> 00:18:10.720
Everyone, from the staff to the coaches to the players, it is very, very calm in Los Angeles, which makes me really worried that they are just gonna keep going through.
00:18:10.799 --> 00:18:21.279
Now I know I'm on a Kansas City podcast, and if Casey gets that home field advantage, that's I mean, you guys know that's it is unmatched at CPKC Stadium, what happens there.
00:18:21.519 --> 00:18:29.359
But I think I think Angel City is just cooking something really good right now, and and they could win out, right?
00:18:29.519 --> 00:18:32.240
That's what is it, what are the breakdowns of it, Dave?
00:18:32.319 --> 00:18:32.720
Do you know?
00:18:32.880 --> 00:18:36.400
Like if if Kansas City wins, it doesn't matter they host, right?
00:18:36.559 --> 00:18:36.880
Correct.
00:18:37.119 --> 00:18:43.440
Yes, if Kansas City ties or loses and Angel City wins, Angel City would get in the top four.
00:18:43.680 --> 00:18:51.119
Uh either way, we have this scenario where it looks pretty likely that Kansas City and Angel City will face off in the first round of the playoffs, which is crazy.
00:18:51.440 --> 00:18:53.119
Yeah, which is really crazy to think about.
00:18:53.279 --> 00:18:59.839
The fact that just one point separates them and Casey has the advantage and all they have to do is win, like that gives better hope.
00:18:59.920 --> 00:19:03.039
If it was tied, I mean, I don't know.
00:19:03.200 --> 00:19:06.720
I I because I do think Angel City is gonna win over Boston.
00:19:06.880 --> 00:19:07.519
I really do.
00:19:07.839 --> 00:19:08.720
Love it, love it.
00:19:08.880 --> 00:19:12.160
Well, we certainly appreciate um all your expertise, all your knowledge.
00:19:12.240 --> 00:19:15.279
You bring such a good energy and such just excitement.
00:19:15.359 --> 00:19:17.519
And this is the best time of the year, right?
00:19:17.759 --> 00:19:20.400
So, Lisa Carlin, we appreciate you joining us.
00:19:20.559 --> 00:19:22.480
Um, if you're on any calls this weekend, good luck.
00:19:22.559 --> 00:19:26.400
If you're not, put your feet up and enjoy some amazing NWSL soccer.
00:19:26.559 --> 00:19:28.240
But thanks so much for joining us today.
00:19:28.480 --> 00:19:29.119
Thank you guys.
00:19:29.200 --> 00:19:29.759
You're the best.
00:19:29.920 --> 00:19:30.400
Enjoy it.
00:19:30.559 --> 00:19:31.359
One final day.
00:19:31.440 --> 00:19:32.160
Let's go.
00:19:32.400 --> 00:19:34.319
All right, great stuff there from Lisa Carlin.
00:19:34.480 --> 00:19:37.279
Always good catching up with her, one of the best analysts in the league.
00:19:37.440 --> 00:19:39.440
We'll get to the match preview here in a second.
00:19:39.599 --> 00:19:43.920
Huge game for Kansas City, controlling their own destiny here at Racing Louisville.
00:19:44.079 --> 00:19:45.680
Couple nuggets, good news for the current.
00:19:45.839 --> 00:19:50.480
Temwa Shawinga officially finishes in the top ten for the female Ballon d'Or winner.
00:19:50.640 --> 00:19:53.279
Lorena finishes at the 28th ranked finalist.
00:19:53.599 --> 00:19:54.559
Very cool for both of them.
00:19:54.640 --> 00:19:56.319
And how about Temo getting in the top 10?
00:19:56.400 --> 00:20:01.359
You know, she's been so good the last few years, didn't really reflect in the voting, and it did this year.
00:20:01.759 --> 00:20:02.720
And it's about time.
00:20:02.799 --> 00:20:08.640
You know, we we've known her talents for years now, obviously, and now the world is getting to know who Temois Shawinga is.
00:20:08.720 --> 00:20:09.759
And this is just amazing.
00:20:09.839 --> 00:20:12.480
And I do think that we see her break the top five soon.
00:20:12.640 --> 00:20:17.519
I just keep uh in the future, I I think that her name is gonna be in that list for a long time.
00:20:17.839 --> 00:20:18.960
Yeah, no, I totally agree.
00:20:19.039 --> 00:20:20.799
And then Eball Engage.
00:20:21.039 --> 00:20:23.200
They say that Ian Eball now stands for Engage.
00:20:23.440 --> 00:20:25.440
That was big news we found out about Sunday as well.
00:20:25.759 --> 00:20:26.720
That's exciting stuff.
00:20:26.880 --> 00:20:39.039
She flashed the ring as she was walking in, which I love to watch the players do kind of like a a massive walk-in and fan appreciation match, the last regular season home match, and Eball just hit him with the diamond on the rock.
00:20:39.200 --> 00:20:40.079
I thought that was so cool.
00:20:40.240 --> 00:20:41.200
Congratulations to Eball.
00:20:41.279 --> 00:20:43.279
And of course, Kristen Hamilton as well.
00:20:43.519 --> 00:20:44.559
Exciting news for them.
00:20:45.200 --> 00:20:45.680
Absolutely.
00:20:45.759 --> 00:20:46.720
All right, let's talk about it.
00:20:46.799 --> 00:20:47.839
The regular season finale.
00:20:47.920 --> 00:20:49.759
It seems like the season has just flown by.
00:20:49.920 --> 00:20:52.000
We're here at the very last regular season game.
00:20:52.079 --> 00:20:53.920
The good news is that current has at least one more game.
00:20:54.000 --> 00:20:55.440
The playoffs have been clinched.
00:20:55.519 --> 00:20:57.359
They love to clinch a home playoff game.
00:20:57.519 --> 00:20:59.920
To do that, they probably need to win.
00:21:00.079 --> 00:21:04.160
I don't want to depend on Angel City not winning against Boston in LA.
00:21:04.799 --> 00:21:08.559
So it's funny, in some ways, you could have a sigh of relief.
00:21:08.640 --> 00:21:14.079
You're on this four-game winning streak, you've clinched a playoff spot, you're coming off what felt like a playoff game against Washington.
00:21:14.319 --> 00:21:22.319
I know the current will say this is another playoff game, but you're going against a team that's next to last in the standings, a team that's coming off a six to one loss.
00:21:23.039 --> 00:21:28.000
Um, like as a human, it would be as hard for the current to be as up for this game as they were for Washington.
00:21:28.160 --> 00:21:30.799
That being said, I do think they're gonna come out and play well.
00:21:31.279 --> 00:21:32.480
Is it a trap game?
00:21:32.559 --> 00:21:37.279
And what does Louisville bring knowing their season's over, knowing they just got demolished six to one?
00:21:37.680 --> 00:21:40.480
Are they gonna bring a real fight or is that kind of TBD?
00:21:40.799 --> 00:21:41.519
It's so tough.
00:21:41.599 --> 00:21:46.000
It's such a hard thing for a team to go, you know, to literally lose a match 6 1.
00:21:46.079 --> 00:21:59.119
And actually, if they get scored on, so if Kansas City scores on Louisville this upcoming weekend, they'll be the only second team ever in NWSL history to finish the season without a clean sheet.
00:21:59.440 --> 00:21:59.599
Oof.
00:22:00.000 --> 00:22:03.440
And so you that just tells you how their season has gone.
00:22:03.599 --> 00:22:05.759
It's just been a really tough year for this squad.
00:22:05.839 --> 00:22:11.279
And you know, coming off a 6'1 loss, probably their their toughest, heaviest defeat there.
00:22:11.359 --> 00:22:14.000
Um, this team's probably in a tough spot mentally.
00:22:14.160 --> 00:22:21.200
Having said that, there are players on this team like Emma Sears, a true professional, a player that's is a standout for her country.
00:22:21.440 --> 00:22:31.359
Um, they are still professionals, so they're not gonna just roll over and say, fine, you know, you can have our last no, they're gonna come and play a match as, as, as expected, right?
00:22:31.519 --> 00:22:34.880
Bev Inez, head coach, head coach of the year last year.
00:22:35.039 --> 00:22:36.559
This woman knows how to lead a team.
00:22:36.640 --> 00:22:38.319
And, you know, there's just no secret.
00:22:38.400 --> 00:22:40.799
There's been some question and flux in their leadership.
00:22:40.880 --> 00:22:42.160
Is the team gonna be sold?
00:22:42.240 --> 00:22:50.720
It's it's been a lot of distraction for these players off the pitch, and that's hard, but I think that it's obvious that it translated to the play this year.
00:22:50.880 --> 00:22:56.079
Um, but I say that to say they are not gonna go down easy, in my opinion.
00:22:56.319 --> 00:23:02.960
Any professional athlete is not gonna show up to a match and say, oh, fine, I'm just here to go through the motions.
00:23:03.039 --> 00:23:03.680
You guys can score.
00:23:03.759 --> 00:23:04.960
We're we're really just kind of here.
00:23:05.279 --> 00:23:08.319
No, what professional athlete do you know that's gonna do that?
00:23:08.480 --> 00:23:12.880
So I don't think that this is going to be a cakewalk for Kansas City.
00:23:12.960 --> 00:23:19.039
Uh, do I think it might be an opportunity to rest a couple players once the score is is favorable for Kansas City?
00:23:19.200 --> 00:23:19.759
I do.
00:23:19.920 --> 00:23:24.960
I absolutely do think that's a good opportunity going into playoffs to get a little rest if you can.
00:23:25.119 --> 00:23:32.240
Um but for Kansas City and what we know of Kansas City is that they are mentally extremely strong, extremely resilient.
00:23:32.400 --> 00:23:39.920
I expect the utmost of professional approach to this match, go in there, get your win, just take care of business, and then come home with your three points.
00:23:40.079 --> 00:23:40.240
Trevor Burrus, Jr.
00:23:40.319 --> 00:23:44.799
We talked about earlier the current has fallen behind a lot this year, conceding the first goal.
00:23:44.960 --> 00:23:48.079
I think they've proven they don't need to score first to win games.
00:23:48.319 --> 00:23:54.240
But I think against a team like Louisville, who's coming in maybe doubting themselves a lot with nothing to play for.
00:23:54.319 --> 00:23:59.440
I think if Kansas City can score first and maybe score early, then I think it does become a much easier game.
00:23:59.519 --> 00:23:59.680
Trevor Burrus, Jr.
00:23:59.920 --> 00:24:00.559
I agree with you.
00:24:00.799 --> 00:24:03.680
Don't let them think they're in the match, right?
00:24:03.839 --> 00:24:12.480
Like don't allow them to get on the board and give them that hope because the underdog, you know, uh attitude and and uh momentum is real.
00:24:12.720 --> 00:24:16.240
And so that could translate um for who knows what for Louisville.
00:24:16.480 --> 00:24:17.440
So I I agree with you.
00:24:17.680 --> 00:24:22.400
I think more than ever it's important for them to get in there and start strong, start fast.
00:24:22.559 --> 00:24:27.440
Um let's get some balls into space and see what Timweath can do for that match, see what Coop can do.
00:24:27.519 --> 00:24:30.880
Um why not go back to Haley Hopkins, who has just been on fire lately?
00:24:30.960 --> 00:24:36.319
But extremely important to start fast, to start early with goals and just control the match.
00:24:36.720 --> 00:24:41.920
What are your keys to the game, Kansas City, needing the full three points to guarantee they advance and have a home playoff game at home?
00:24:42.160 --> 00:24:46.160
Yeah, so it's it's just that it's gets get started early, get on the board early.
00:24:46.319 --> 00:24:52.559
And I I refrain from saying that last match because of the the situations we've seen at home where they've come back.
00:24:52.640 --> 00:25:01.599
Um but this, to your point earlier, this is a game where they've got to score first and and go in there and prove that they do deserve that home playoff match.
00:25:01.680 --> 00:25:05.920
And I think that they absolutely have the ability to do that mentally, physically.
00:25:06.079 --> 00:25:08.240
I do believe that's gonna happen with Kansas City.
00:25:08.319 --> 00:25:15.039
So get in there, start fast, um, go in transition and and get some goals early, and then of course be clinical.
00:25:15.279 --> 00:25:16.079
Zero mistakes.
00:25:16.240 --> 00:25:19.680
We saw what the tiniest little mistake happened last match.
00:25:19.839 --> 00:25:22.160
You know, teams are gonna punish you for that.
00:25:22.319 --> 00:25:23.119
So no mistakes.
00:25:23.279 --> 00:25:28.799
A clean sheet would be huge momentum, huge confidence for Kansas City, but certainly the biggest one is score first.
00:25:29.119 --> 00:25:29.759
It's a big one.
00:25:29.839 --> 00:25:33.279
Hopefully, we'll be talking about a big current win when we come back next week.
00:25:33.440 --> 00:25:34.960
And that'll do it for us here today.
00:25:35.119 --> 00:25:36.720
You've been tuning into the current situation.
00:25:36.880 --> 00:25:38.880
Be sure to check out our next episode next week.
00:25:38.960 --> 00:25:40.079
It'll be a playoff preview.
00:25:40.240 --> 00:25:41.599
Kansas City officially in.
00:25:41.759 --> 00:25:43.759
Now we'll find out if it's a home playoff game.
00:25:43.920 --> 00:25:46.799
Have a great week, everybody, and we'll talk to you again soon.
00:00:00.080 --> 00:00:01.360
Hey there, KC Current fans.
00:00:01.439 --> 00:00:03.120
Welcome once again to the Current Situation.
00:00:03.200 --> 00:00:05.919
I'm Dave Bort alongside Jilly and Carol Latrinko.
00:00:06.000 --> 00:00:06.879
Thanks so much for tuning in.
00:00:06.959 --> 00:00:09.359
We have a huge KC Current win to talk about.
00:00:09.519 --> 00:00:11.439
I don't know if we could say it's the biggest win of the year.
00:00:11.519 --> 00:00:15.039
It kind of feels that way, but it's we've been in playoff mode for about a month now.
00:00:15.279 --> 00:00:17.280
Two to one over Washington.
00:00:17.440 --> 00:00:19.280
It wasn't smooth sailing all the way.
00:00:19.359 --> 00:00:21.120
The current gave up a goal again first.
00:00:21.440 --> 00:00:24.559
The tenth time in 15 home games this year, they've conceded first.
00:00:24.719 --> 00:00:27.600
They're undefeated in those 10 games, which is a crazy stat.
00:00:28.000 --> 00:00:33.920
Then Kansas City equalized one minute after conceding, and then three minutes after conceding, they had the lead.
00:00:34.000 --> 00:00:37.920
I mean, it was a wild game, but more importantly, a huge win, two to one over Washington.
00:00:38.159 --> 00:00:40.479
And it just felt like a magical night.
00:00:40.560 --> 00:00:42.240
It felt like a playoff preview.
00:00:42.320 --> 00:00:44.960
It felt like a championship preview for me.
00:00:45.119 --> 00:00:46.079
Uh it was wonderful.
00:00:46.159 --> 00:00:49.600
And I felt like this was an amazing opportunity for Kansas City.
00:00:49.759 --> 00:00:52.000
They're catching fire when it when it matters most.
00:00:52.079 --> 00:00:53.119
And this is proof of that.
00:00:53.280 --> 00:01:05.040
And again, uh taking down an opponent like Washington, who has been successful on the road, uh, who has amazing players on their team when they have been in good form, that was a huge, huge result for Kansas City.
00:01:05.280 --> 00:01:08.319
Three big points, and we talk about sometimes it feels like a six-point win.
00:01:08.640 --> 00:01:10.400
That would be one of these matches for sure.
00:01:10.560 --> 00:01:16.879
But again, uh just the electric environment was that the fans brought, the players met that.
00:01:16.959 --> 00:01:18.879
They matched that environment on the pitch.
00:01:19.040 --> 00:01:22.079
And I'm so excited for Lola Bonta, for her goal.
00:01:22.159 --> 00:01:23.439
It was a huge response.
00:01:23.519 --> 00:01:27.680
Like you said, I think we said 79 seconds after Washington scored.
00:01:27.760 --> 00:01:29.040
Lola Bonta's right there.
00:01:29.120 --> 00:01:37.040
And then again, Vanessa DiBernardo on the second, the the game-winning goal, um, amazing energy, amazing win for Kansas City.
00:01:37.599 --> 00:01:42.879
I know last week we couldn't say Kansas City was the hottest team in the league, but now San Diego's winning streak has come to an end.
00:01:42.959 --> 00:01:47.840
The current has four straight wins, the most in the league, only one loss in their last nine games.
00:01:48.079 --> 00:01:50.719
I think you can make a case Kansas City is the hottest team in the league right now.
00:01:51.120 --> 00:01:54.159
Yeah, and and it's it's the time to be the hottest team, right?
00:01:54.239 --> 00:01:59.120
Um I don't think that Kansas City has been this high in the standings since match week one.
00:01:59.519 --> 00:02:01.280
So they are peaking at the right time.
00:02:01.439 --> 00:02:12.639
I know we say that kind of casually here and there, but Chris Armist is doing everything correct to correctly to prepare this team to head into playoffs on a high wave of momentum.
00:02:12.719 --> 00:02:14.479
Uh they're coming in feeling confident.
00:02:14.639 --> 00:02:21.039
They're coming in after matches where they're scoring multiple goals with multiple players involved in each goal.
00:02:21.360 --> 00:02:25.120
This team is on fire, and again, it's it's right at the exact time they want to be.
00:02:25.439 --> 00:02:31.360
You mentioned just 79 seconds between the current conceding, going down one-nil, and then equalizing through Lola Bonta.
00:02:31.439 --> 00:02:34.400
How important was that that they were able to equalize so quickly?
00:02:34.639 --> 00:02:36.879
I think that was a massive goal.
00:02:37.039 --> 00:02:41.919
I think it, and I think I said this on the broadcast, but for me, this is who Lola Bonta is.
00:02:42.080 --> 00:02:43.039
She made a statement.
00:02:43.120 --> 00:02:47.199
She said, I will take the team and put it on my back, and I will put this goal in the back of the net.
00:02:47.439 --> 00:02:50.560
It was a it was a gorgeous shot, first of all.
00:02:50.639 --> 00:03:00.400
Uh, but the way that she was able to get her body over this, get all the power, strike through this ball, it did take a deflection, and it still was not stoppable by the goalkeeper McKeever.
00:03:00.479 --> 00:03:06.400
Uh, everything about this goal for me was Lola Bonta as a leader saying, Hey girls, we're still in this.
00:03:06.479 --> 00:03:07.759
Uh, here we go.
00:03:07.919 --> 00:03:13.120
Um, and just starting just the response, which obviously resulted eventually resulted in the win.
00:03:13.439 --> 00:03:18.960
And just two minutes after Lowe's equalizer, Vanessa Di Bernardo got the game winner, as you mentioned, a lot of things going on there.
00:03:19.039 --> 00:03:22.080
It was Vanessa's first goal since she came back from maternity leave.
00:03:22.159 --> 00:03:27.919
It was her first goal since the playoff loss at Orlando in November of 2024, ends up being the game winner.
00:03:28.080 --> 00:03:31.840
Croy Bethune with a very unselfish pass, she gets the assist.
00:03:31.919 --> 00:03:38.319
It's a new single season record, 11 assists on the season, and a new record for most game-winning assists in a single season.
00:03:38.719 --> 00:03:43.120
So Bethune sets a record, Vanessa gets in the scorebook again, kind of a historic goal.
00:03:43.439 --> 00:03:44.159
Oh, it's huge.
00:03:44.400 --> 00:03:51.280
And for Croy Bethune to do this against her former club, that for me is a huge piece of this story.
00:03:51.520 --> 00:04:01.280
It is a player who decided to choose herself and make a move and go somewhere else where she felt would be a better fit for her, and she left a great situation in Washington and she did amazing things there.
00:04:01.439 --> 00:04:04.080
She was rookie of the year, midfielder of the year, we saw that.
00:04:04.400 --> 00:04:08.960
Um, but she chose to come to Kansas City and she was very transparent about multiple reasons why.
00:04:09.280 --> 00:04:13.120
And then unfortunately, she did take a little uh an injury, you know, she missed a couple matches.
00:04:13.199 --> 00:04:14.719
But look what this player has done.
00:04:15.360 --> 00:04:18.319
Not even playing the same amount of matches as everyone else in the league.
00:04:18.560 --> 00:04:21.600
She has set a new two new records, like you just said.
00:04:21.759 --> 00:04:23.519
Um she's just the assist queen.
00:04:23.680 --> 00:04:37.680
That's just forever and always I feel who she's going to be, the creativity she brings, um, the selfless play that she brings, this exact assist is is a really good representation of how unselfish she is because she could have taken a shot.
00:04:37.920 --> 00:04:41.519
It may have been challenging for McKeever, it may have snuck in.
00:04:41.680 --> 00:04:49.839
However, she knew she had the run of Di Bernardo and she played that box ball right, excuse me, that square ball right across the box, and Vanessa Di Bernardo knocked it home.
00:04:49.920 --> 00:04:53.519
So an incredible record, two records for Croix Bethune, very well deserved.
00:04:53.600 --> 00:04:55.279
And I don't think she's done yet, I'll be honest.
00:04:55.360 --> 00:04:56.879
I think we're gonna see more in the postseason.
00:04:57.199 --> 00:05:04.879
We knew before kickoff that Kansas City had clinched a playoff berth because of results Friday night, but we also knew that Angel City had jumped ahead of Kansas City in the standings.
00:05:04.959 --> 00:05:10.160
So if Kansas City didn't win, they were not gonna be in the top four, which means they're not in line to host a home playoff game.
00:05:10.240 --> 00:05:19.680
The current did win, they got the full three points, they're back ahead of Angel City, although just one point ahead of Angel City, so the pressure is still on Kansas City to win the finale, which we'll talk about later in the show.
00:05:19.920 --> 00:05:23.199
But how big was it to get the win now?
00:05:23.360 --> 00:05:30.560
32 straight home games without a loss in the regular season, and to stay in that spot to have another home game first round of the playoffs?
00:05:30.879 --> 00:05:32.560
Yeah, it's it's it's everything right now.
00:05:32.720 --> 00:05:41.600
That's it's to the point where Kansas City, they've been through so much this season and uh a lot of ups, lots of lots of downs, I would say, and they fought their way back up.
00:05:41.680 --> 00:05:43.120
And look at where they stand now.
00:05:43.360 --> 00:05:51.120
They control their own destiny, and to your point, they're able to really do what their part to secure that home playoff match.
00:05:51.199 --> 00:05:56.240
And this stadium is a stadium that deserves to have playoff matches.
00:05:56.480 --> 00:06:05.920
These fans, this environment, uh, it is very unique, it is electric, all the adjectives I could possibly think of, uh, but it is a place where magic happens for Kansas City.
00:06:06.079 --> 00:06:08.480
So of course they want to be here to host a playoff match.
00:06:08.720 --> 00:06:18.879
And again, the scenario if the current wins at Racing Louisville, they're guaranteed to finish in the top four and host a home playoff game the weekend of November 5th, 6th, 7th here at CPKC Stadium.
00:06:19.040 --> 00:06:23.600
Uh there's still other scenarios they could host at home, but Angel City's got a home game.
00:06:23.680 --> 00:06:27.680
The current, obviously, going on the road, it's gonna be tough, but we'll preview more later.
00:06:27.759 --> 00:06:30.480
But Racing Louisville, you know, it's not the worst opponent.
00:06:30.560 --> 00:06:35.199
They're near the bottom of the table, they're coming off a 6-1 loss, they don't have much to play for.
00:06:35.439 --> 00:06:36.959
Kansas City's got everything to play for.
00:06:37.120 --> 00:06:38.639
Hopefully, they can keep this winning streak going.
00:06:38.879 --> 00:06:41.439
And for me, it's gonna be all about mentality for Kansas City.
00:06:41.519 --> 00:06:49.279
And so they just have to show up there, ready to take care of business, cannot take a break at all, and just go down there, do their thing, and bring home those three points.
00:06:49.680 --> 00:06:54.319
Excited to be joined now by Lisa Carla, one of the best analysts in the NWSL.
00:06:54.560 --> 00:06:55.680
Lisa, thanks for your time.
00:06:55.759 --> 00:06:56.639
How you been doing?
00:06:56.959 --> 00:06:57.199
Good.
00:06:57.279 --> 00:06:58.800
Dave and Jillian, I love this.
00:06:58.879 --> 00:07:01.519
I'm honored to be um on this podcast with you guys.
00:07:01.600 --> 00:07:02.480
So thank you so much.
00:07:02.720 --> 00:07:05.519
Two of the best that cover the game in Kansas City.
00:07:05.600 --> 00:07:07.279
And you guys, you do the current well.
00:07:07.439 --> 00:07:11.199
It's the fan base is very lucky to have you, and I'm even luckier to be here.
00:07:11.279 --> 00:07:11.839
So thank you.
00:07:12.160 --> 00:07:13.519
Oh, well, thanks for the kind words.
00:07:13.600 --> 00:07:14.800
And you're like I said, I'm in it.
00:07:14.879 --> 00:07:17.600
I think you're one of the best analysts and broadcasters that covers the league.
00:07:17.680 --> 00:07:18.639
So we appreciate your time.
00:07:18.800 --> 00:07:20.079
We know you have a busy schedule.
00:07:20.160 --> 00:07:26.879
And uh wanted to start kind of talking about the recent results here from the next to last week's week of the season.
00:07:27.040 --> 00:07:28.480
Lots of playoff implications.
00:07:28.560 --> 00:07:31.839
A lot of teams played this past week that were fighting for playoff positioning.
00:07:32.000 --> 00:07:36.399
Was kind of curious your take on what stood out to you about the results from this past week.
00:07:36.879 --> 00:07:40.000
I mean, we never know what the heck we're gonna get in this league.
00:07:40.160 --> 00:07:41.920
That's like the best part about it.
00:07:42.079 --> 00:07:44.319
And I we got that again this past weekend.
00:07:44.399 --> 00:07:49.519
I think the win for Kansas City over Washington 2-1 was really, really big.
00:07:49.680 --> 00:08:06.240
Like that was a really big win and kind of cemented the the run that Kansas City can go on now in the postseason because right these last three, four weeks leading up to the playoffs is a really big indicator of what teams are going to look like in the postseason.
00:08:06.399 --> 00:08:07.519
It's like a lead-in for that.
00:08:07.680 --> 00:08:15.680
You look at Angel City, they're a team that's been on an absolute hot streak, and they they did it again, picking up another win this weekend in LA.
00:08:15.839 --> 00:08:21.279
But guys, when you're when you have seven goals in a game, you gotta get some shout-outs.
00:08:21.360 --> 00:08:32.320
And Denver with a 6-1 win over Louisville, holy cow! I was getting alerts for that game, and it was like goal, goal, goal, goal, another one.
00:08:32.639 --> 00:08:39.759
It's been so impressive to watch an expansion team in Denver Summit be as explosive as they have been in front of goal.
00:08:39.840 --> 00:08:44.159
Or they have like over 50 goals this year, and they haven't even clinched a playoff spot yet.
00:08:44.240 --> 00:08:58.399
But that game against Louisville proved that they want to be a team that's not only in the playoffs, but contending for a championship and and making a run for it, or they're gonna make it really, really difficult for any other team to steal that last spot in the playoffs.
00:08:58.480 --> 00:09:00.320
So to me, it has to be that Denver game.
00:09:00.399 --> 00:09:07.360
I mean, watching Lindsay Heaps and Janine Sonis, they're they want this, they want this so bad for their hometown.
00:09:07.440 --> 00:09:10.320
Um, and you can really see it when the summit's on the pitch.
00:09:10.639 --> 00:09:13.840
Yeah, it's so exciting, and I love that you brought up the hometown players.
00:09:13.919 --> 00:09:14.879
I think it is so cool.
00:09:15.039 --> 00:09:26.240
And specifically their relationship of when they were playing, you know, youth play, club play together when they were young, and now they get to do it for um their their home team, which I think is so cool.
00:09:26.480 --> 00:09:29.360
I know I was shocked by the San Diego match.
00:09:29.519 --> 00:09:33.120
Um, I know Dave's been mentioning the Angel City is just on fire right now.
00:09:33.279 --> 00:09:36.799
There's so many teams right now that have captured our attention.
00:09:37.039 --> 00:09:43.120
Um, what would you say that really is important for teams as they get into the playoffs?
00:09:43.200 --> 00:09:48.879
Like, what is separating the best teams from the teams that are still trying to fight into the table?
00:09:49.200 --> 00:09:57.840
Yeah, well, there's three of them, right, that are still looking for that final spot: Seattle, North Carolina, and Denver fighting for one more postseason position.
00:09:57.919 --> 00:10:01.440
Um, which, like, God, thank God we get such a fun decision day.
00:10:01.519 --> 00:10:02.159
I love that.
00:10:02.399 --> 00:10:09.279
But it's it's a little bit of like the culminate culmination of the season and how it comes down to right now.
00:10:09.360 --> 00:10:14.559
Because you could have done so well in March, April, May, June.
00:10:14.799 --> 00:10:22.639
But if you didn't carry that through to the second half of the season or even the last two months, it what are you doing now?
00:10:22.720 --> 00:10:25.360
I mean, I think of a team like North Carolina Courage.
00:10:25.600 --> 00:10:29.759
Five weeks ago, six weeks ago, we were like, yeah, they're gonna host a playoff spot.
00:10:29.840 --> 00:10:31.279
They'll be at the top of the table.
00:10:31.440 --> 00:10:32.799
They're just in cruise control.
00:10:32.879 --> 00:10:35.279
They've got the golden boot winner and Ashley Sanchez.
00:10:35.440 --> 00:10:39.120
Macklin knows what he's doing with this team and how to play them.
00:10:39.360 --> 00:10:46.000
And a couple weeks later, now they're on the outside looking in, and they have to play against Denver on the final day in order to get in.
00:10:46.080 --> 00:10:52.799
It is all about runs in this league and going on runs and picking up consecutive wins as you can.
00:10:52.960 --> 00:10:57.840
And like on the flip side of North Carolina, you look at Angel City six weeks ago.
00:10:57.919 --> 00:11:00.879
I was like, they're not making the playoffs, they're not going anywhere.
00:11:01.120 --> 00:11:13.279
Now they have the chance to host a playoff position because they've gone on a run and picked up points and wins over really big teams in their last couple of weeks Utah, Washington, Gotham.
00:11:13.440 --> 00:11:17.200
And it doesn't matter what Angel City was doing in the first half of the season.
00:11:17.279 --> 00:11:19.440
That was like three coaches ago at this point.
00:11:20.159 --> 00:11:28.159
It is all about what happens right now and how you finish the season and if you can go on runs and pick up any little momentum that you can.
00:11:28.320 --> 00:11:31.759
Because I mean, you two know anything can happen in this league.
00:11:31.919 --> 00:11:36.639
Anytime players step on the pitch, who knows what the outcome of the game is gonna be.
00:11:36.720 --> 00:11:38.559
It's all about between the ears for these players.
00:11:38.639 --> 00:11:53.200
If they can believe and if they can go out there and play a little bit consistent and build upon game after game after game towards like through September and now October, that's who's gonna be impressive throughout the postseason.
00:11:53.279 --> 00:11:55.600
And you obviously you look at the past, right?
00:11:55.759 --> 00:12:06.320
Gotham, when they've won their championships, doesn't matter if they're first or their eighth in the standings, they can go on and win because they've picked up momentum at that point in time.
00:12:06.639 --> 00:12:08.480
Well, and I agree with what you said earlier.
00:12:08.639 --> 00:12:15.600
It's and I don't want to be sounding negative to Seattle, but I think it would be way more exciting if Denver got in the playoffs instead of Seattle.
00:12:15.679 --> 00:12:16.720
And we'll see if it happens.
00:12:16.879 --> 00:12:18.240
Denver's three points back.
00:12:18.399 --> 00:12:23.039
They do have a huge advantage in goal differential, so if they can get caught up, they would have the tiebreaker.
00:12:23.200 --> 00:12:26.960
Uh, but looking at those final three, was kind of curious your pick on who would sneak in.
00:12:27.039 --> 00:12:29.120
Right now, Seattle is in the pole position.
00:12:29.200 --> 00:12:30.480
They have 44 points.
00:12:30.639 --> 00:12:34.720
North Carolina's behind the playoff line with 42, Denver with 41.
00:12:34.799 --> 00:12:37.840
Like you said, North Carolina and Denver play each other, which is fascinating.
00:12:38.080 --> 00:12:40.000
Seattle's at home against Orlando.
00:12:40.159 --> 00:12:45.120
Theoretically, on paper, it's a winnable game, but you never know what's going to happen in the NWSL.
00:12:45.440 --> 00:12:47.039
How do you see that last spot playing out?
00:12:47.360 --> 00:12:48.399
Steve, it's so true.
00:12:48.559 --> 00:12:53.039
Like, it's on theoretically, Seattle should be in the postseason, right?
00:12:53.200 --> 00:12:57.840
Like, if you're looking at this logically, you would say they just have to win.
00:12:58.000 --> 00:13:00.000
It could be one-nil and it doesn't matter, right?
00:13:00.080 --> 00:13:01.840
The goal differential doesn't matter.
00:13:02.080 --> 00:13:04.080
Seattle wins and they are in.
00:13:04.480 --> 00:13:05.919
It should be easy.
00:13:06.159 --> 00:13:07.679
I don't think it will be easy.
00:13:07.840 --> 00:13:09.759
I don't think it'll be easy for Seattle.
00:13:10.000 --> 00:13:21.919
They they are such a gritty team this year, and Laura Harvey knows how to win, and she knows how to put complete performances together or sneak out wins and be dangerous in the last 10 minutes of a game.
00:13:22.080 --> 00:13:25.840
But the way Orlando is playing right now, it is not going to be easy.
00:13:26.000 --> 00:13:32.799
And teams like Orlando want nothing more than to be a spoiler and a thorn in someone's side.
00:13:33.039 --> 00:13:35.840
So I think it's going to come down to the North Carolina-Denver game.
00:13:36.000 --> 00:13:36.720
I really do.
00:13:37.200 --> 00:13:40.720
Which makes it even more exciting on the final day.
00:13:40.960 --> 00:13:46.720
Um, but when you think about North Carolina-Denver, these are two teams that just score goals for fun.
00:13:46.879 --> 00:13:49.759
They talk about like a team that's entertaining to watch.
00:13:49.840 --> 00:13:51.519
It's like the Kansas City of last year.
00:13:51.600 --> 00:13:54.480
It's like they're going to score a lot of goals and they're going to be entertaining.
00:13:54.559 --> 00:13:56.000
They're going to concede some as well.
00:13:56.240 --> 00:14:02.480
If North Carolina can get in the transition, Denver's going to concede a couple goals, but can they outscore them at that point?
00:14:02.559 --> 00:14:03.919
It's it doesn't matter.
00:14:04.000 --> 00:14:08.960
So I think really do think it'll come down to the North Carolina-Denver matchup on decision day.
00:14:09.039 --> 00:14:10.000
What do you two think?
00:14:10.480 --> 00:14:13.200
With one spot left and three teams, who's snagging it?
00:14:13.519 --> 00:14:16.799
I love that you turned the tables here because we were just a little bit chatting about it.
00:14:16.960 --> 00:14:20.320
I do think it'd be way more exciting to see Denver, an expansion team.
00:14:20.480 --> 00:14:22.480
I'd love to see them claw their way in.
00:14:22.559 --> 00:14:27.919
And we're all about trying to build this geographical rivalry between Denver and Kansas City.
00:14:28.080 --> 00:14:29.360
So I think it'd be fun.
00:14:29.440 --> 00:14:30.399
Um, I don't know about you, Dave.
00:14:30.720 --> 00:14:32.639
That's who I hope gets in is Denver.
00:14:32.879 --> 00:14:35.120
I have no idea who's gonna get in.
00:14:35.360 --> 00:14:41.360
I mean, part of me thinks North Carolina, because they've had some chances lately and they haven't taken advantage and like this game's at home.
00:14:41.519 --> 00:14:45.759
Is this the time they finally take advantage and win the must-win game that gets them in?
00:14:46.080 --> 00:14:47.120
Yeah, it'll be really interesting.
00:14:47.360 --> 00:14:56.879
And when you have a player like Ashley Sanchez, that team, I mean, come on, she's done 20 goals, and her team can't even get them into the playoffs, so that would be hard.
00:14:56.960 --> 00:15:00.639
So for her, I would say, gosh, I would almost want it to be them.
00:15:00.879 --> 00:15:08.159
Um, but before we slip away, because we know that you've got a lot of things going on, you're gonna be a mama soon, so we don't want to take all your time.
00:15:08.320 --> 00:15:18.480
Um, but how important is it and how much fun is it for the fans that a proper decision day is back in NWSL and talk about, I mean, the perfect matchups this year, right?
00:15:19.279 --> 00:15:22.240
It is such a perfect storm that we get on decision day.
00:15:22.320 --> 00:15:25.039
I mean, we have the shield race at the top.
00:15:25.200 --> 00:15:34.799
Um, Gotham, they have to win on decision day, a spot that they could have clinched weeks ago at the top of the table when they ran away and they did they weren't able to do that.
00:15:34.960 --> 00:15:38.080
San Diego has just dropped points against Boston.
00:15:38.320 --> 00:15:40.879
They are going to do everything they can to win the shield.
00:15:41.120 --> 00:15:57.200
So the fact that we get a race at the top of the table and then a race right on the playoff line about who's going to come in it makes it that much more amazing, especially with the shield race, because the last, what is it, three seasons, two seasons, it's been an absolute runaway.
00:15:57.279 --> 00:16:02.799
With Kansas City last year, they clinched it weeks before decision day, Orlando the year before that.
00:16:03.039 --> 00:16:06.240
It there hasn't been a fight at the top.
00:16:06.320 --> 00:16:15.600
And now it comes down to the final day between Gotham and San Diego, who both teams who have been at the top of the table and both could say, hey, we really deserve to win it.
00:16:15.679 --> 00:16:21.120
But then with the top four spots on the line as well, who knows who's gonna host a playoff game?
00:16:21.200 --> 00:16:26.559
It's all to play for Washington, Kansas City, Angel City, Utah, Portland, Gotham, San Diego.
00:16:26.639 --> 00:16:28.480
There could all potentially host.
00:16:28.639 --> 00:16:30.960
Guys, like there's just so much at stake.
00:16:31.039 --> 00:16:36.399
And then, of course, who locks up that final spot between Seattle and North Carolina and Denver.
00:16:36.559 --> 00:16:45.840
Um, it is so exciting, and there's gonna be a lot to watch for, and goal differential comes into play, and it's a proper decision day that we didn't get last year.
00:16:45.919 --> 00:16:51.519
Um, and now it is back, and it just makes it so sweet with all the games kicking off at the same time.
00:16:51.679 --> 00:16:56.799
You know where I'll be on Sundays, locked in, locked in to watch all of this.
00:16:57.120 --> 00:17:01.120
Hey, Lisa, before we let you go, I do want to ask you about that race for the four seed.
00:17:01.279 --> 00:17:04.400
Because, like you said, there's a race at the top, there's a race at eight.
00:17:04.480 --> 00:17:09.039
Here in Kansas City, we're focused on the race for four because how good the current's been at home.
00:17:09.200 --> 00:17:12.960
Kansas City's in fourth, they only have one point lead on Angel City.
00:17:13.119 --> 00:17:14.960
Angel City's got Boston in LA.
00:17:15.359 --> 00:17:16.960
Kansas City's traveling to Louisville.
00:17:17.119 --> 00:17:19.359
Louisville's kind of in that position you mentioned with Orlando.
00:17:19.440 --> 00:17:20.640
They'd love to be a spoiler.
00:17:20.880 --> 00:17:22.000
How do you think it plays out?
00:17:22.079 --> 00:17:25.200
Who do you think ends up getting a home playoff game, Kansas City or Angel City?
00:17:25.519 --> 00:17:26.160
I know, guys.
00:17:26.319 --> 00:17:28.400
I can't I can't even make these predictions.
00:17:28.480 --> 00:17:29.440
I don't want to.
00:17:29.599 --> 00:17:33.920
I think that Boston is going to be a really hard challenge for Angel City to play against.
00:17:34.079 --> 00:17:34.480
I really do.
00:17:34.559 --> 00:17:40.240
I think the physicality that Boston brings is going to be a match for what Angel City wants to do.
00:17:40.400 --> 00:17:51.599
Um, but having I was at the match versus Angel City this past weekend in LA, and they are so calm, which is very intimidating.
00:17:51.759 --> 00:17:55.359
When you have a team that's like so riled up and ready to go, that's one thing.
00:17:55.440 --> 00:17:57.920
But Angel City is like, yeah, we're cool.
00:17:58.079 --> 00:17:58.640
We got this.
00:17:58.799 --> 00:17:59.279
Doesn't matter.
00:17:59.359 --> 00:18:10.720
Everyone, from the staff to the coaches to the players, it is very, very calm in Los Angeles, which makes me really worried that they are just gonna keep going through.
00:18:10.799 --> 00:18:21.279
Now I know I'm on a Kansas City podcast, and if Casey gets that home field advantage, that's I mean, you guys know that's it is unmatched at CPKC Stadium, what happens there.
00:18:21.519 --> 00:18:29.359
But I think I think Angel City is just cooking something really good right now, and and they could win out, right?
00:18:29.519 --> 00:18:32.240
That's what is it, what are the breakdowns of it, Dave?
00:18:32.319 --> 00:18:32.720
Do you know?
00:18:32.880 --> 00:18:36.400
Like if if Kansas City wins, it doesn't matter they host, right?
00:18:36.559 --> 00:18:36.880
Correct.
00:18:37.119 --> 00:18:43.440
Yes, if Kansas City ties or loses and Angel City wins, Angel City would get in the top four.
00:18:43.680 --> 00:18:51.119
Uh either way, we have this scenario where it looks pretty likely that Kansas City and Angel City will face off in the first round of the playoffs, which is crazy.
00:18:51.440 --> 00:18:53.119
Yeah, which is really crazy to think about.
00:18:53.279 --> 00:18:59.839
The fact that just one point separates them and Casey has the advantage and all they have to do is win, like that gives better hope.
00:18:59.920 --> 00:19:03.039
If it was tied, I mean, I don't know.
00:19:03.200 --> 00:19:06.720
I I because I do think Angel City is gonna win over Boston.
00:19:06.880 --> 00:19:07.519
I really do.
00:19:07.839 --> 00:19:08.720
Love it, love it.
00:19:08.880 --> 00:19:12.160
Well, we certainly appreciate um all your expertise, all your knowledge.
00:19:12.240 --> 00:19:15.279
You bring such a good energy and such just excitement.
00:19:15.359 --> 00:19:17.519
And this is the best time of the year, right?
00:19:17.759 --> 00:19:20.400
So, Lisa Carlin, we appreciate you joining us.
00:19:20.559 --> 00:19:22.480
Um, if you're on any calls this weekend, good luck.
00:19:22.559 --> 00:19:26.400
If you're not, put your feet up and enjoy some amazing NWSL soccer.
00:19:26.559 --> 00:19:28.240
But thanks so much for joining us today.
00:19:28.480 --> 00:19:29.119
Thank you guys.
00:19:29.200 --> 00:19:29.759
You're the best.
00:19:29.920 --> 00:19:30.400
Enjoy it.
00:19:30.559 --> 00:19:31.359
One final day.
00:19:31.440 --> 00:19:32.160
Let's go.
00:19:32.400 --> 00:19:34.319
All right, great stuff there from Lisa Carlin.
00:19:34.480 --> 00:19:37.279
Always good catching up with her, one of the best analysts in the league.
00:19:37.440 --> 00:19:39.440
We'll get to the match preview here in a second.
00:19:39.599 --> 00:19:43.920
Huge game for Kansas City, controlling their own destiny here at Racing Louisville.
00:19:44.079 --> 00:19:45.680
Couple nuggets, good news for the current.
00:19:45.839 --> 00:19:50.480
Temwa Shawinga officially finishes in the top ten for the female Ballon d'Or winner.
00:19:50.640 --> 00:19:53.279
Lorena finishes at the 28th ranked finalist.
00:19:53.599 --> 00:19:54.559
Very cool for both of them.
00:19:54.640 --> 00:19:56.319
And how about Temo getting in the top 10?
00:19:56.400 --> 00:20:01.359
You know, she's been so good the last few years, didn't really reflect in the voting, and it did this year.
00:20:01.759 --> 00:20:02.720
And it's about time.
00:20:02.799 --> 00:20:08.640
You know, we we've known her talents for years now, obviously, and now the world is getting to know who Temois Shawinga is.
00:20:08.720 --> 00:20:09.759
And this is just amazing.
00:20:09.839 --> 00:20:12.480
And I do think that we see her break the top five soon.
00:20:12.640 --> 00:20:17.519
I just keep uh in the future, I I think that her name is gonna be in that list for a long time.
00:20:17.839 --> 00:20:18.960
Yeah, no, I totally agree.
00:20:19.039 --> 00:20:20.799
And then Eball Engage.
00:20:21.039 --> 00:20:23.200
They say that Ian Eball now stands for Engage.
00:20:23.440 --> 00:20:25.440
That was big news we found out about Sunday as well.
00:20:25.759 --> 00:20:26.720
That's exciting stuff.
00:20:26.880 --> 00:20:39.039
She flashed the ring as she was walking in, which I love to watch the players do kind of like a a massive walk-in and fan appreciation match, the last regular season home match, and Eball just hit him with the diamond on the rock.
00:20:39.200 --> 00:20:40.079
I thought that was so cool.
00:20:40.240 --> 00:20:41.200
Congratulations to Eball.
00:20:41.279 --> 00:20:43.279
And of course, Kristen Hamilton as well.
00:20:43.519 --> 00:20:44.559
Exciting news for them.
00:20:45.200 --> 00:20:45.680
Absolutely.
00:20:45.759 --> 00:20:46.720
All right, let's talk about it.
00:20:46.799 --> 00:20:47.839
The regular season finale.
00:20:47.920 --> 00:20:49.759
It seems like the season has just flown by.
00:20:49.920 --> 00:20:52.000
We're here at the very last regular season game.
00:20:52.079 --> 00:20:53.920
The good news is that current has at least one more game.
00:20:54.000 --> 00:20:55.440
The playoffs have been clinched.
00:20:55.519 --> 00:20:57.359
They love to clinch a home playoff game.
00:20:57.519 --> 00:20:59.920
To do that, they probably need to win.
00:21:00.079 --> 00:21:04.160
I don't want to depend on Angel City not winning against Boston in LA.
00:21:04.799 --> 00:21:08.559
So it's funny, in some ways, you could have a sigh of relief.
00:21:08.640 --> 00:21:14.079
You're on this four-game winning streak, you've clinched a playoff spot, you're coming off what felt like a playoff game against Washington.
00:21:14.319 --> 00:21:22.319
I know the current will say this is another playoff game, but you're going against a team that's next to last in the standings, a team that's coming off a six to one loss.
00:21:23.039 --> 00:21:28.000
Um, like as a human, it would be as hard for the current to be as up for this game as they were for Washington.
00:21:28.160 --> 00:21:30.799
That being said, I do think they're gonna come out and play well.
00:21:31.279 --> 00:21:32.480
Is it a trap game?
00:21:32.559 --> 00:21:37.279
And what does Louisville bring knowing their season's over, knowing they just got demolished six to one?
00:21:37.680 --> 00:21:40.480
Are they gonna bring a real fight or is that kind of TBD?
00:21:40.799 --> 00:21:41.519
It's so tough.
00:21:41.599 --> 00:21:46.000
It's such a hard thing for a team to go, you know, to literally lose a match 6 1.
00:21:46.079 --> 00:21:59.119
And actually, if they get scored on, so if Kansas City scores on Louisville this upcoming weekend, they'll be the only second team ever in NWSL history to finish the season without a clean sheet.
00:21:59.440 --> 00:21:59.599
Oof.
00:22:00.000 --> 00:22:03.440
And so you that just tells you how their season has gone.
00:22:03.599 --> 00:22:05.759
It's just been a really tough year for this squad.
00:22:05.839 --> 00:22:11.279
And you know, coming off a 6'1 loss, probably their their toughest, heaviest defeat there.
00:22:11.359 --> 00:22:14.000
Um, this team's probably in a tough spot mentally.
00:22:14.160 --> 00:22:21.200
Having said that, there are players on this team like Emma Sears, a true professional, a player that's is a standout for her country.
00:22:21.440 --> 00:22:31.359
Um, they are still professionals, so they're not gonna just roll over and say, fine, you know, you can have our last no, they're gonna come and play a match as, as, as expected, right?
00:22:31.519 --> 00:22:34.880
Bev Inez, head coach, head coach of the year last year.
00:22:35.039 --> 00:22:36.559
This woman knows how to lead a team.
00:22:36.640 --> 00:22:38.319
And, you know, there's just no secret.
00:22:38.400 --> 00:22:40.799
There's been some question and flux in their leadership.
00:22:40.880 --> 00:22:42.160
Is the team gonna be sold?
00:22:42.240 --> 00:22:50.720
It's it's been a lot of distraction for these players off the pitch, and that's hard, but I think that it's obvious that it translated to the play this year.
00:22:50.880 --> 00:22:56.079
Um, but I say that to say they are not gonna go down easy, in my opinion.
00:22:56.319 --> 00:23:02.960
Any professional athlete is not gonna show up to a match and say, oh, fine, I'm just here to go through the motions.
00:23:03.039 --> 00:23:03.680
You guys can score.
00:23:03.759 --> 00:23:04.960
We're we're really just kind of here.
00:23:05.279 --> 00:23:08.319
No, what professional athlete do you know that's gonna do that?
00:23:08.480 --> 00:23:12.880
So I don't think that this is going to be a cakewalk for Kansas City.
00:23:12.960 --> 00:23:19.039
Uh, do I think it might be an opportunity to rest a couple players once the score is is favorable for Kansas City?
00:23:19.200 --> 00:23:19.759
I do.
00:23:19.920 --> 00:23:24.960
I absolutely do think that's a good opportunity going into playoffs to get a little rest if you can.
00:23:25.119 --> 00:23:32.240
Um but for Kansas City and what we know of Kansas City is that they are mentally extremely strong, extremely resilient.
00:23:32.400 --> 00:23:39.920
I expect the utmost of professional approach to this match, go in there, get your win, just take care of business, and then come home with your three points.
00:23:40.079 --> 00:23:40.240
Trevor Burrus, Jr.
00:23:40.319 --> 00:23:44.799
We talked about earlier the current has fallen behind a lot this year, conceding the first goal.
00:23:44.960 --> 00:23:48.079
I think they've proven they don't need to score first to win games.
00:23:48.319 --> 00:23:54.240
But I think against a team like Louisville, who's coming in maybe doubting themselves a lot with nothing to play for.
00:23:54.319 --> 00:23:59.440
I think if Kansas City can score first and maybe score early, then I think it does become a much easier game.
00:23:59.519 --> 00:23:59.680
Trevor Burrus, Jr.
00:23:59.920 --> 00:24:00.559
I agree with you.
00:24:00.799 --> 00:24:03.680
Don't let them think they're in the match, right?
00:24:03.839 --> 00:24:12.480
Like don't allow them to get on the board and give them that hope because the underdog, you know, uh attitude and and uh momentum is real.
00:24:12.720 --> 00:24:16.240
And so that could translate um for who knows what for Louisville.
00:24:16.480 --> 00:24:17.440
So I I agree with you.
00:24:17.680 --> 00:24:22.400
I think more than ever it's important for them to get in there and start strong, start fast.
00:24:22.559 --> 00:24:27.440
Um let's get some balls into space and see what Timweath can do for that match, see what Coop can do.
00:24:27.519 --> 00:24:30.880
Um why not go back to Haley Hopkins, who has just been on fire lately?
00:24:30.960 --> 00:24:36.319
But extremely important to start fast, to start early with goals and just control the match.
00:24:36.720 --> 00:24:41.920
What are your keys to the game, Kansas City, needing the full three points to guarantee they advance and have a home playoff game at home?
00:24:42.160 --> 00:24:46.160
Yeah, so it's it's just that it's gets get started early, get on the board early.
00:24:46.319 --> 00:24:52.559
And I I refrain from saying that last match because of the the situations we've seen at home where they've come back.
00:24:52.640 --> 00:25:01.599
Um but this, to your point earlier, this is a game where they've got to score first and and go in there and prove that they do deserve that home playoff match.
00:25:01.680 --> 00:25:05.920
And I think that they absolutely have the ability to do that mentally, physically.
00:25:06.079 --> 00:25:08.240
I do believe that's gonna happen with Kansas City.
00:25:08.319 --> 00:25:15.039
So get in there, start fast, um, go in transition and and get some goals early, and then of course be clinical.
00:25:15.279 --> 00:25:16.079
Zero mistakes.
00:25:16.240 --> 00:25:19.680
We saw what the tiniest little mistake happened last match.
00:25:19.839 --> 00:25:22.160
You know, teams are gonna punish you for that.
00:25:22.319 --> 00:25:23.119
So no mistakes.
00:25:23.279 --> 00:25:28.799
A clean sheet would be huge momentum, huge confidence for Kansas City, but certainly the biggest one is score first.
00:25:29.119 --> 00:25:29.759
It's a big one.
00:25:29.839 --> 00:25:33.279
Hopefully, we'll be talking about a big current win when we come back next week.
00:25:33.440 --> 00:25:34.960
And that'll do it for us here today.
00:25:35.119 --> 00:25:36.720
You've been tuning into the current situation.
00:25:36.880 --> 00:25:38.880
Be sure to check out our next episode next week.
00:25:38.960 --> 00:25:40.079
It'll be a playoff preview.
00:25:40.240 --> 00:25:41.599
Kansas City officially in.
00:25:41.759 --> 00:25:43.759
Now we'll find out if it's a home playoff game.
00:25:43.920 --> 00:25:46.799
Have a great week, everybody, and we'll talk to you again soon.
