KC Current Record 5-4 Win In NWSL First Purpose-Built Stadium

On a cool Saturday afternoon, the Kansas City Stream They faced the Portland Thorns for the third time in four seasons. While the Current were poised to make history at their new home at CPKC Stadium, it also marked a coming full circle moment when the pair of teams initially kicked off their inaugural NWSL seasons the same way in April 2013.

With a sellout of 11,500 fans, Current put on an electric game, as their 5-4 victory galvanized the crowd to begin a new chapter in NWSL history, as it was the first game in a purpose-built stadium by the NWSL.

“It’s a historic day for soccer and women’s sports and also for Kansas City and to be a part of it, I’m excited and proud to be a part of a day like this,” said Vlatko Andonovski. “There is always something that raises the standards to a higher level. The stadium and this moment is what is taking the standard to the next level and now it is up to the other teams to follow.”

Integrated in Kansas City

With dozens of billboards featuring Current players along with the logo plastered on streetcar designs across the city, Current is truly making a statement in a city that’s bigger than football.

In some cities with NWSL teams, residents do not know their local team, and in most cases merchandise is not easily accessible at airports or local stores. However, in Kansas City, the Current dominate their presence with flags in public areas, a vibrant ‘KC BABY’ sign that sits in the heart of Union Station with merchandise sold alongside other KC teams like the Chiefs and the Royals.

To top it off, Current also has its $18 million state-of-the-art arts training center in Riverside, MO. The training facility has multiple grass fields and is located on a street named after the team.

Current Creates New Legacy At CPKC Stadium

In the 22nd minute, Corriente pressed in the final third and when Debinha crossed the ball to the center of the area, Vanessa Di Bernardo found the shot to officially celebrate the first goal in the first stadium specially built by the NWSL.

Moments later, rookie Ellie Wheeler doubled Current’s lead in the 25th minute. With momentum building, Current held a 3-1 lead at the half, as the Thorns’ lone goal was scored by none other than Sophia Smith.

The electricity in the stadium was seen as the group of KC Blue Crew supporters continued to cheer throughout the match as they encouraged the team to score more goals.

“I think the mentality that this group has is something, as long as we continue to do that throughout the season, we will put ourselves in a very good position to compete for the Championship and that is what this club wants to be,” goalkeeper AD Franch said. “As we do that, this will represent those who came before us and those who will come after us.”

Although the Thorns put up a fight by going scoreless and scoring four goals, Current’s victory marked new momentum in NWSL history. The Current’s opening match will go down in NWSL history as the $120 million venue allows players to have the proper playing conditions they have always deserved.

According to The Current, the stadium is expected to generate $20 million in revenue annually. As for The Current, their Teal Rising motto still rings true as they have created the beginning of a new legacy in women’s football.

Now their next challenge awaits them, as they will travel to California to face San Diego Wave FC on March 23 before returning home to host another California rival, Angel City FC.