On Sunday night, the Orlando Pride took on the Portland Thorns to kick off their inaugural season in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). Although the team didn’t walk away with the results they wanted, they took to the pitch and proved that they will be a formidable opponent this season. Now, they’re looking to build off that momentum this Saturday, in their home opener against the Houston Dash.
The Portland Thorns are widely considered to be one of the best teams in NWSL, coming in ranked #1 in this week’s NWSL power rankings. The Houston Dash are ranked #2. But no one really knows what to make of the NWSL’s newest team. While both of these opponents have strong attacking games, the Pride has one of the best defensive lines in the NWSL. Of the starting players in the lineup against the Thorns, seven play for different national teams. Even though they’re still learning each other's rhythm and techniques, they are starting to develop a style that is entirely their own.
Orlando City is widely considering one of the most difficult cities to travel to in MLS. In addition to their talented and driven roster, teams dread traveling to Orlando because of the fans. Orlando has one of the loudest supporter sections in the country. Head Coach Tom Sermanni and the Orlando Pride want to make Orlando fans known to this league.
Orlando Pride Players Welcome Fans To Inaugural Match
“Hopefully they watched the game tonight and they feel really proud of the efforts of the players,” Coach Sermanni said after the match in Portland. “I encourage as many, many fans as possible to come along and really support this team.”
Are you #FilledWithPride? Then join us in the Citrus Bowl on Saturday, April 23rd at 7:00pm as the Orlando Pride take on the Houston Dash.
