FC KANSAS CITY READY TO RENEW RIVALRY

First of Three Matches Against Portland Thorns FC

FC Kansas City heads to the Pacific Northwest on Saturday for the first match of the season in what has become the first great rivalry in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) between the Blues and the Portland Thorns. These two teams played the inaugural match last season, followed by some of the most memorable games throughout the season.

FC Kansas City at Portland Thorns Game Notes

Kansas City and Portland combined for a league-high 16 goals in four regular season matchups in 2024. The regular season was won by Kansas City (2-1-1), but Portland was able to claim victory in the playoffs with a 3-2 overtime win.

Both teams have seen significant changes in the offseason. For Portland, Paul Riley now mans the helm, taking over for Cindy Parlow Cone. He brings with him a new style of play that focuses more on his players’ creativity than rigid formations. On the field, the team has brought in current FIFA World Player of the Year, goalkeeper Nadine Angerer.

FC Kansas City’s lineup has seen several changes, highlighted by the addition of U.S. Women’s National Team forward, Amy Rodriguez. After sitting out the 2024 due to pregnancy, Rodriguez has come back with scores in each of her first two games.

Both teams left points behind in their games last weekend. FC Kansas City could not recover from a first-half deficit and fell to the Washington Spirit, 3-1. The Portland Thorns also fell behind early last week against Sky Blue FC, but they were able to salvage a point when Allie Long scored on a penalty kick in the 73^rd minute.

Saturday’s game kicks off in Portland at 9:00p.m. CT. The match can be viewed LIVE on FCKansasCity.com/Live-Feed.

FC Kansas City has a short turnaround following this match, returning home for a midweek match against the Chicago Red Stars on Wednesday, April 30 at 7:00p.m. CT. Tickets are available for that match by calling 855.4KC.GOAL (855.452.4625) or emailing tickets@kcprosoccer.com