Current top Thorns in high-scoring season opener

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How Kansas City Current's thrilling win is just the start of an 'unbelievable' NWSL season

Lianne Sanderson believes the NWSL season is going to be an "unbelievable ride" after Kansas City Current's thrilling 5-4 victory over Portland Thorns.

Updated: Jul 4, 2024, 06:59 am

The Kansas City Current beat the Portland Thorns 5-4 in a thrilling season opener at CPKC Stadium on Saturday.

Vanessa DiBernardo capitalized on a defensive error by Portland to open the scoring. Shortly after, rookie Ellie Wheeler extended the lead, and Bia Zaneratto made it 3-0 with a superb strike in the 34th minute. Kristen Hamilton and 16-year-old Alex Pfeiffer also scored for K.C., which led 3-1 at the half. Temwa Chawinga also made an impactful debut for Kansas City as well, contributing two assists.

Portland, down 5-1 midway through the second half, attempted to mount a comeback, scoring three goals in the final 15 minutes of regulation, but couldn't get any closer. Sophia Smith and Janine Beckie each netted twice for the Thorns. 

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