Futbol W: Jaedyn Shaw and Croix Bethune Join the Show!

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22:20Jeff Kassouf:Always great. Always great to talk to Jaden Shaw. But we have to kind of break down a little bit what this means for Kansas City. And I don't want to expose both of you because, I mean, it was pretty obvious that Kansas City current were the favorites to win both the Shield, which they did, and the Cup. But, Allie, what was the most surprising part to you of that game against Gotham?

22:47Cristina Alexander:Yeah, I mean, even I, out of all people, who's, you know, the biggest Gotham fan, which I'm glad I actually changed my mind to say the Kansas City was going to win or else I'd probably get fired. You know, not giving my not giving my real opinion. After a while, people would get bored of that. But no, I think on on any on any day, any team can win. Right. It's just a matter of how you show up and how you perform. And I think the biggest difference, it was nice to hear that Jaden was talking about that week. Right. They all knew as individuals it wasn't good enough. And as a team, it wasn't good enough.

23:23Cristina Alexander:So they had to have the willingness and drive to want to change that. And they certainly did. And I think that was a completely different team than we saw. Yes, a few players had changed, too. And then when you ask about Kansas City, that would be so devastating because of the season that they had, the history that they've made, the performances, consistent team week in and week out. they won 21 games out of the 26 uh that is unbelievable they were what 21 points ahead of the second place team uh in uh in the league so that is phenomenal numbers that is you know obviously they were the best team in the league right and they won the league title they won the shield uh period uh now i wish we could talk about hopefully in the future having you know a cup a cup you know championship right um the nwso cup like we had for challenge cup but but in you know competing against tier two and tier three teams um so hopefully one day we'll get to that so that the playoff picture will be you know a little bit different that you know the best team does win the league and and period um and they did that they accomplished that uh now that we move into somewhat of a second season, everyone else has another chance.

24:48Cristina Alexander:So I think that Kansas City is going to be disappointed. I think the game would have been different if everyone was healthy. But then again, Gotham didn't have, you know, two of their best players and Jace and obviously Esther. But they're going to be upset. I think from top down, they were the best team. and everyone thought so, that they were going to just get to the final and we would see another battle there. But it's unfortunate. I think some of the best players in just the season that they've had, I'm, you know, happy that, you know, Gotham could potentially win again, but sad that, you know, they had the season they had and they couldn't finish it on top.

25:33Jeff Kassouf:Yeah, I mean, objectively speaking, Jeff, Kansas City should very much be proud of the season that they had, although maybe it does feel a little bit bitter right now. But looking back at this historic season, Temwa Chawinga was their standout, their MVP, and she wasn't there. How much did they miss her with all those opportunities we saw them create? I mean, hugely. Not even a question. Chawinga changes games. She changes opponents. She changes her own team. I said it on that Prince. It's nothing against Prince, but that is the moment where I looked at that early opportunity. That's where Schoenga's in behind.

26:12That's what she does, right? And that's – Kansas City plays for those moments. They don't need the ball. They had 30 percent possession at one point in that first half. They're comfortable with that. You might look at that and say, oh, man, they're getting dominated. They're cool with that. But a lot of that is predicated on Schoenga. Michelle Cooper also missing for this game. Yeah. Added to that. So, you know, the lack of Schoenga, this is not a one-player team, but she changes them so drastically. And then Vlako Nanovsky said it going into the game and then after the game. You can plan for maybe one absence, and it's still hard to plan for that big of an absence.

26:46But when you have Schoenga and Cooper absent, you've got Bia playing on what we learned was a sprained MCL. I mean, she had it wrapped up. She was playing on, he called her half a Bia, basically. When you have those three, suddenly that deep forward line, even with Dabinia, yes, is looking a little bit thinner, is not necessarily clicking. And we saw it. I mean, this was a Kansas City team that as deep as they are, as talented as they are, I still think this is going to now cloud this argument. Arguably the best team we've ever seen in this league, statistically in the regular season, to Ali's point, we saw that.

27:18But without those players, this was a team that did not click up front, especially in the first half.

27:24Jeff Kassouf:Yeah, they weren't clinical there. And I think Michelle Cooper also does so much for the team beyond just scoring those goals that they were really going to miss her. And in combination with Tim Wachewinga, obviously it's never a good time to get injured, but Cooper getting injured in the last game of the regular season, I mean, it's just gutting for Kansas City all around. But we applaud the historic season. We won't ever forget about the numbers that they put up this season, the fastest to ever win the Shield. But we have to move on just as Kansas City has to as well. Let's take a look at how Orlando Pride Friday night punched the only game that didn't go to extra time.

28:00Jeff Kassouf:And Jeff, I read your tweets. You called her Haley McClutchin. Haley McClutchin. I heard it come on air after that, Mike Watts. I heard it. I don't know if it was just me, but McClutchin, I mean, she scores in November, bottom line. Yeah, you know who scores all the time or provokes penalties? It's Marta. This was absolutely outrageous. It was a bit like last year's semifinal when she made the run for the goal. Yeah, absolutely. This is probably the greatest story of the weekend, if not the season, too, Jeff. Yeah, I mean, Luana handing the ball over. We saw what it meant emotionally for her from Marta postgame to come back from battling cancer last year, to be back in the field this year.

28:40And then Orlando moving on.

28:42Jeff Kassouf:Yeah, it's one of those stories that we love to see a full circle moment for Luana, for this Orlando Pride team, too, still defending their title. But remembering what we saw during the regular season, it's funny because both of them at home let each other win 2-0. March 23rd at Gotham, it was Lillie Rill with that own goal. And Marta, of course, scoring for Orlando. August 29th at Orlando was Esther Gonzalez and Jalen Howell scoring for Gotham. So let's go into this matchup now this weekend. Orlando versus Gotham. Allie, big picture, what kind of game are you expecting?

29:20Cristina Alexander:It's going to be a battle, especially if Gotham comes out and performs the same way that they did this past weekend against Kansas City. Orlando obviously is missing one of their best players, if not the best player, one of the best in the league and MVP candidate. And in my eyes, if she wasn't gotten injured during the middle of the season, which was really sad to see that. So they also have to fill her shoes or try to at least. And I think, you know, if Esther plays or not, we'll see. Obviously, we can now say that Jaden Shaw totally could take that position and score goals and affect plays in a positive way and impact the game.

30:06Cristina Alexander:So it's going to be a battle. I think Orlando defensively, I think they're set up for success. They have great structure, both in the attack and defense. They have an identity. They love to keep possession. And then Marta is just the central player who really dictates the rhythm and the play. And on Gotham's side of things, if they come out and defensively play the same way with that mentality, they will have success because the way you defend is directly related to the, to the way you can attack. And I just remember seeing Sonnet intercept passes and be able to play, you know, passes that were, you know, getting into the attack, beating lines and giving the, the attack, the attacking players, the chances to be successful.

30:58Cristina Alexander:So I do think that if they can come out and play very similar with that confidence and that mentality, then it's going to be a difficult matchup for both teams. And both sides of the defending game is going to be tough. And both teams have a lot of threats. So it will be exciting. I'm really happy that we're actually going to be there because seeing the atmosphere, hearing the fans and supporters and being in and amongst it all is going to get a different vibe for us for sure.

31:29Jeff Kassouf:Yeah, I texted Allie up over the weekend. I said it's the Krieger Derby coming back again for the semifinals. But I want to dive in now into y 'all's predictions. Allie, let's start with you. Who are you leaning towards for this weekend?

31:43Cristina Alexander:I better say Gotham this time because my coaches texted me and called me and gave me some crap because I had said initially that Kansas City was going to come out on top. So I do think in all seriousness, though, that Gotham can win. as long as they continue to play and perform the way that they came out. Because the North Carolina game, that was really discouraging, you know, as to any Gotham fan, I'm sure, and supporter, and anyone who loves the team because you know how good they can be. And I was really, really happy to see that adjustment. And you just have to play your best team, and good things are going to happen, and having that mentality and that confidence.

32:30Cristina Alexander:So I do think Gotham will win. It's not going to be easy. Once again, Orlando is going to cause some issues as well because they're skillful. They're technical. They have great players who can do something out of nothing. So it's going to be a really good matchup. But I think in the end, Gotham, if they can put their shots on target and finish their chances that they create because sometimes it's not many but you have to be clinical in those moments then they will come out with the win Jeff what's your prediction well if Ali got the text add that to Marta we know she's watching she's been she's been online with the predictions Rob Gale was talking about the predictions so people are watching that's cool I like that uh and I'm I know not to cross Marta I saw her Instagram yesterday okay um she's the best listen I like I like Orlando slightly in this.

33:27I agree with a lot of what Ali said. Defensively, I think both of these teams, you look at Emily Sams for Orlando, Emily Sonnet for Gotham, probably not talked about enough again in that quarterfinal. So, you know, I think defensive stalemate potentially in this semifinal. Potential X factor, Jackie Ovalle has been very, I mean, you look at that quarterfinal, some of the moves that she put on, not just the highlight reel moves with the spin on the defender, the juke move, but serving crosses. I just feel like Orlando, things are finally starting to click. I mean, we've given them some fair share of criticism and frankly justified, you know, justifiably with how the middle of their season went.

34:05But they've started to click at the end of the season. They're hitting it at their stride at the right time. And you look at Haley McCutcheon scoring goals again, right? Marta is making these runs from 10 years ago like she's not turning 40 soon. and she's winning these PKs in stoppage time. I think that these pieces are starting to come together. The one missing piece, as Ali said earlier, Barbara Banda, who really in the final, at least last year, single-handedly in some ways lifted them to that final piece to the trophy. But I like Orlando in the sense that those things are coming together.

34:42Defensively, it's there. I think we're seeing the creativity in the midfield. Yes, Banda missing. You could say the same about Esther. what's going to be her status. But I think it's going to be tight either way, but I like Orlando.

34:54Jeff Kassouf:All right. I like that both of you had different predictions here coming into the weekend. Listen, we had a little bit of snow this week in the Northeast, so we're ready to go down south. Orlando Pride facing Gotham FC, Sunday, 3 p.m. Eastern, ABC, ESPN Plus, ESPN Deportes, and of course, the ESPN app.

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37:04Jeff Kassouf:Welcome back to Football W. Let's take a look at another Extra Time action this weekend. And in the quarterfinals, it was nil-nil in the 72nd minute until Jeff Giff Monday put a head on it. Rising above. I mean, this was a great header. Back where it came from, the service. Kwasi, I mean, Kwasi with the service, she was great all game. I thought really stepped up. Obviously, we talked about Rodman missing. I thought she really filled that void. Yeah, and she did really great, too, considering everything Giff Monday had gone through a few days before. And it was almost over, Jeff. and rowdy outy got real quiet.

37:40I mean, this was deflating for sure for Washington. This long ball Louisville tried so many times unsuccessfully, and then very end, they make it work.

37:48Jeff Kassouf:Yeah, it was 1-1 until the PKs came around. It was a tough one for Louisville, not only because missing these kind of opportunities, but they had Aubrey Kingsbury in front. Yeah, I mean, look, Kingsbury again, the hero just like last year in the shootout. If we're being honest, these were not good enough PKs from Louisville, right? and maybe we can say there's the experience versus a first-time playoff team. Yeah, Hal Hirschfeld really just put her back into that as well, and Aubrey Kingsbury as well, burying Louisville who are now out after a historic clinch of the playoffs. A little bit more from Washington Spirit who are now going the distance.

38:29Jeff Kassouf:They reached their seventh semifinal. That's the third most of any team. Portland with nine, Seattle with eight. They're involved in 17 of 14 all-time NWSL playoff matches that go to extra time. And Aubrey Kingsbury, nine career saves in shootouts. That's the most in all NWSL competitions. She had two versus Louisville.

38:51Jeff Kassouf:You see her shine week in, week out, and now she's hanging out with us here on Football W. Washington Spirits' Croy Bethune joins us now. Croy, so excited to talk to you. So happy that we were finally able to see you in playoffs after what you had to go through last season. And Racing Louisville kept it maybe a little bit too exciting there for you guys towards the end. But how did you handle the pressure to finally punch that ticket to semifinals? Hey, y 'all. Yeah, it was an exciting game. We just wanted to keep y 'all a little longer out of you with us. You know, but I think we played very well and held on towards the end.

39:28I feel like big-time players stepped up and Aubrey held us down in the PKs.

39:37Cristina Alexander:Troy, you've obviously had Trinity Rodman out recently. She came back, and then now she's been out again. So how has that changed the team's rhythm, especially in this playoffs? And what have you personally taken on to fill that creative gap? because now you have to step up into that midfield role and really lead the team in the attack. Yeah, I mean, Trent's a big-time player, and she's definitely great when she's playing with us. But this team is very deep and versatile as well. I've just been trying to step up in a role and continue being myself and allowing us to still mesh and grow on for this next game.

40:18Kroy, I wanted to ask you, being there at Audi over the weekend and hearing Adrian talk in the postgame many times brought up the mental side of things. And he talked about the sports psychology, that even he speaks with the sports psychologists, with the players as well. And he really credited that to the victory. At one point, he said it was even more important than tactics. So I'm curious from your perspective what that looks like, and especially going into another big game, another semifinal. What does that mean for, you know, what is the mental, emotional preparation for a game like that?

40:50Yeah, as much as it is physical, it is mental as well. Just taking everything day by day, owning in on the little details, but not overstressing and overworking your brain. We do have a therapist that we can talk to if we need to. But for me, just staying relaxed and taking things day by day.

41:13Cristina Alexander:And Croy, during the shootout, obviously, what kept you so composed? you know, during that moment? And how did you feel after that finish? A lot of preparation and a lot of trust. I trust my teammates. This isn't just preparing for that playoff and PKs in general. We want to get extra work in and become the best at what we do. Well, that was cool to see. I mean, being there at Audi, actually, first time I got to see Spirit at Audi, I was there for the U.S. game, and I could feel the vibe that everybody talks about. It went dead silent for some of those PKs and then erupted. But maybe just looking forward to, Croy, when you look at Portland now in this semifinal, and I'm really curious about the midfield because you have yourself and Hal, some really tough, savvy players, and then you look on the other side, players you're familiar with from the U.S.

42:11camp with Sam Coffey, Olivia Moultrie, Jesse Fleming. I feel like this midfield battle is so key. What do you think the difference might be in this game? What jumps out to you in terms of a potential advantage or where the game might be won? Versatility, being able to play in different roles, working off each other. I feel like when we're unified and connected closer, we thrive better. And as long as we can do that and stick to the play, I think the spirit can overcome.

42:44Cristina Alexander:Brian, when you're on the ball, we spoke about this a little bit in my first question about having the rhythm and sharing that leadership and being confident in the midfield. But you're that type of engine player that the spirit really relies on to lead the attack. So it feels like a lot flows through you. What confidence does that give you? And do you enjoy kind of stepping into that role and carrying that chemistry? and having that freedom, like specifically for you individually. How does that feel? And do you enjoy kind of leading the attack? Yes, I love being on the ball. I love being cheeky, but also the fact that my teammates trust me being on the ball, getting them involved and kind of playmaking.

43:35It's fun.

43:36Jeff Kassouf:Kroy, describe that cheekiness side of your playing. I love that you use that word. Cheekiness, just flair, having fun, being fancy, but not too fancy, spaces, tricks, you know, a little bit of almost everything. I always appreciate a little bit of fancy footwork, and you definitely have it. But we also know that on the other side of the ball, someone like Olivia Moultrie is having a great time lately. What are you expecting from her also in this big playoff game for Portland against you guys? Yeah, to make things happen, try and break down our defense. But I feel like in preparation and our plan, we won't let that happen.

44:20We'll do our best to not let that happen. But she's a great player. Corey, what has this playoffs meant for you? I mean, we touched on it earlier, but with how it went for you the year last year, I mean, breakout rookie season, Olympics, and then the unfortunate injury and the way it happened, still being able to watch the team make it to the final. So just for you personally, what was it like to have that moment on Saturday, and what are you looking forward to for the rest of these playoffs? Yeah, I mean, it was still a lot of fun to be involved with my team and watch them play amazing in the playoffs last year.

44:55To see Audi that rowdy, it made me want to be a part of it on the field as well. So this year to be there, it's just I'm stoked. I'm having a lot of fun, and I'm excited for this next game. they show up for us. So it's great to be out there on the field.

45:10Jeff Kassouf:Yeah, I had the opportunity, Croy, to talk to Hal yesterday about what Audi Field is, how the fans just really show up and show out. But we know that they weren't only the ones being rowdy. I mean, from the bench, this team is so united through adversity, through your injury last season, through Trinity's, obviously, injury this season. Trin was really, really vocal. What was that energy like for you guys to see that from her off the bench? Yeah, I mean, she's a natural leader. Just because you're not on the field doesn't mean you're out of the game. It's a different perspective for us as well, seeing what she can see on the sideline and taking in that advice and all of us getting together and applying it on the field.

45:55Jeff Kassouf:Yeah, we love it.

45:56Cristina Alexander:I want to ask you. I'm sorry. I wanted to. This is a very important question. This is like, you know, the most fun part of, I think, any of the playoffs, let's be real, are the fits. Showing up to the game, bringing your fit. Have you planned that already? And is there a process behind it? Or is it just day of or the night before? I used to do that when I went to high school. I would set it out the night before and be ready. So I'm just curious how, Croy, you show up and prep for this fit. yeah I mean sometimes it varies I was one of those kids in high school too I feel like for playoffs it's like go big or go home so that's kind of how I'm taking these outfits I have an outfit in mind for this game but we'll see I think you'll like it

46:48Jeff Kassouf:I don't want to give anything away trying a little bit of mystery heading into the semifinals yeah you're definitely one of the the best I mean you're like top five at least best dressed in the league. I always love to see your fit, Trent's fit as well. And speaking of something fun, as, as Ali mentioned you and your TikToks and trend being there as well. I mean, how do you guys decide what TikToks you're going to do? Is it spur of the moment? What do you have planned for this weekend? I mean, sometimes things that are trending or we'll send each other TikToks and be like, Hey, let's do this one.

47:23We have another one cooking up. So stay tuned.

47:28Jeff Kassouf:A lot of teases, too. I love it, Croy. Looking forward to this weekend. Looking forward to see what you and Washington Spirit can do. It's been so exciting to watch this team. So we're happy to see you in the semifinal and always happy to see you here on Football W. We hope to talk to you very soon. Yes, ma 'am. Thank you. I enjoyed this a lot.

47:51All right.

47:51Jeff Kassouf:Let's take a look at how Portland punched their ticket to the semifinal. facing San Diego Wave, Raylan Turner finding who else, Jeff? It would be Moultrie. She wanted that back so bad. Yeah, I mean, she's been very good this season, back half of the season especially. And, yeah, I mean, open look here, open enough certainly from, you know, that distance and, yeah, disappointed with herself, I think. Yeah, absolutely. Nil-nil here in the 62nd minute and, oof, indeed from Turner. Backpedaling and everything. I mean, a bike is always impressive. Yep. Maybe the icicle kick, as we saw in Canada over the weekend, is even impressive.

48:27To be backpedaling, what, three, four steps backpedaling like that?

48:30Jeff Kassouf:With, like, the sun in her eyes, too, we'll have to say. I mean, Kennedy Wesley also trying it from outside. Ringing the post. Yeah, Wesley, yeah, stepping up. We've seen a couple of these from center backs this year. Jordan Buggs scored a banger in North Carolina. And this was close to one, too. Yeah, we can hear the post still ringing. Not for that one. Extra time, though. Sam Coffey finding Olivia Moultrie. A little fancy footwork there from her. sends it in, seals the deal. Raylan Turner at the back post. No coincidence to me that the buildup of this play, which started with Moultrie intercepting the ball midfield, if we were loud enough, Moultrie, Fleming, Coffey.

49:07Jeff Kassouf:So as we talked with Croy, that will be the matchup of this week and Portland facing Washington Spirit. When we see them head-to-head in this regular season comparison, I mean, they're right there with wins, a little separation in the goals, goals against, but with shutouts too, I mean, this is a pretty even matchup, so I am very interested to hear Allie and Jeff's prediction for this one coming up this week, and their jobs are hard having to lean one way or another, especially when what we've seen, they've been so even. Allie, but who are you leaning towards for this semifinal?

49:42Cristina Alexander:I do think I'm leaning towards Washington Spirit. I think they have the home field advantage, Rowdy-Ody, it's going to be intense, It's going to be exciting. The atmosphere is going to be tough for Portland. The travel as well. But I think it's going to be whoever's able to win that midfield battle, to be honest. I think, you know, with Hal Hirschfeld in there, with Corey Bethune kind of, you know, running the ship and being able to dictate play. And then, you know, Portland with Sam Coffey and Fleming and then Olivia Moultrie. We'll see what happens.

50:19Jeff Kassouf:Yeah, I mean, it would be really surprising. Surprising to see like a dominant win from one team or another. Jeff, who are you leaning towards? Well, I agree on the midfield. I mean, I think the midfield battle is going to be huge. But I also lean the spirit for a couple reasons. Defensively, I think there's an edge there. And again, the injuries. I mean, Tara McKeown, you know, I was at Audi. It wasn't swollen or anything. It didn't look terrible. But they did give her the crutches in the tunnel back, you know, with the ankle. So I think that's something to monitor. What does that look like? We're obviously going to keep monitoring what's Trinity Rodman looking like.

50:51So I think their injury concerns should be said. Portland's been dealing with injury concerns since the beginning of the year. So it's not exactly like they're walking in healthy. So I think that could be a big swing there of how healthy is Washington as well. But yeah, I think the spirit. There's the midfield battle. Defensively, I give the edge to the spirit. Again, on the caveat that everybody's healthy. But even Esme Morgan, we saw Aubrey Kingsbury coming up big. She's been big, not just in penalties this season, but overall. So I think Washington, yes, the home field advantage and not having the travel, I think, is a piece of it.

51:24I don't think you can chalk that up to everything at this stage of the playoffs. But, yeah, I think Spirit, overall, I lean there. And I think we've got to see, again, like we said in the quarterfinals, this injury report could swing things.

51:36Jeff Kassouf:Absolutely, especially the Tara McKeon injury, which was so heartbreaking to see. She wants to play every single minute here with Washington. And Gabby Carl left with a hamstring injury in the first half. So, I mean, I think there's, you know, Washington's just been kind of walking wounded all year and not a good time to add to that. Yeah, but they're still in the semifinals. They are. We'll have to see if they can pull it off here coming up this weekend. Very much looking forward to that one as well. We have to take a little break here on Football W. Before, we want to remind you what the bracket is looking like, too.

52:07Jeff Kassouf:Just a reminder, 3 p.m. Eastern on ABC Sunday, got them visiting Orlando and Washington at home at Rowdy Audi facing Portland.

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52:58Croix Bethune:Ask for O 'Reilly Veriscan today.

53:04Jeff Kassouf:All right, let's take it to NWSL Awards, starting with Rookie of the Year nominees. Maddie Dahlian, Lily Real, Riley Tiernan. Allie, let's go with your nominee or your winner first.

53:21Cristina Alexander:Yes, my winner would be Riley Tiernan from Angel City. Rookie of the Year, even though I really appreciate how Lily Real has been playing and performing, but I just think she was phenomenal for LA. Even though the team didn't have the season they hoped for, she was right up there in the Golden Boot race and she finished as her top goal scorer. She led from the front with confidence and strength and consistency and fearlessness. So I really do believe that she can take defenders 1v1 and run in behind. and she's just a nightmare for any defender to have to play against. So I think with gaining this experience year after year, she's just going to be unstoppable in years to come.

54:04Jeff Kassouf:Yeah, no surprise that you said Riley Tierney. We had great conversations with her this season on Football W. Jeff, who's your winner? Would have agreed with that at the halfway point, but for me. But, but, Lily Real, I mean, you look at a rookie coming in, playing every single game, making her debut with the U.S. Women's National Team. She's starting and playing the full 90 in the CONCACAF Final to win a regional, a confederation title for Gotham. And you look at this back line, second best defensive record in the league behind Kansas City's record-breaking season of only giving up 13 goals. And Real is starting almost every one of those games.

54:44So for me, always appreciating defenders, which I know Allie does as well. You know, I think just the overall consistency there is too great to not vote real.

54:54Jeff Kassouf:Yeah, you watch real, especially starting this weekend, and you kind of forget that she's a rookie, which I think says a lot about what we've seen from her this year. All right, let's take it to our next category here with the Coach of the Year nominees. An interesting list. Not surprising to see Vlad Gondonovsky here, Adrian Gonzalez as well, and of course, Bev Yanez. Ali, who's your pick?

55:16Cristina Alexander:Well, I think coach of the year, this might be similar to Jeff. Unsure yet, but it has to be Black Govaninovsky. I think what he's done with Kansas City Current this season was historic. I think they won the NMVSL Shield with the best record and most points a team has ever earned. Once again, they had 21 wins out of the 26, which is pretty incredible. And finishing 21 points ahead of the second place team. So clearly they were a favorite and they deserved it. So they just had dominance in the attacking aspect of the game, but also defensively that structure really provided them with the success they carried through all season.

55:59Cristina Alexander:So even though they fell to Gotham in the quarterfinals, that consistency and the culture and the standard that he set, that was second to none. And he's been hands down, I think, the best coach in the league this season, without a doubt. Yeah. Jeff? Yeah, there's no question. I mean, with huge respect, especially to Bev Yanez, what she did with Louisville, I think doing more with less in many ways in that sense and overachieving. But, I mean, I think he, like, anybody who's not thinking that this answer is Vlako Anonofsky, like, I don't think you're fully appreciating what we just saw. And these votes, we should say, are before the playoffs.

56:39So let's put aside the quarterfinal anyway. But, you know, it's not just, oh, he's got Temwa Chawinga. I mean, defensively, 13 goals conceded in 26 games. He's a defensive coach. You have to come up with the lineups. You have to pull the strings. You have to make the right choices in midfield and deal with that depth. I mean, this is a full picture of Kansas City historic season. Like, in what world is the coach of the year, not the coach who just put together the best season in league history and beat the next best team by 21 points and set every record. I mean, it's Flaqo Ndanovsky. Again, full respect to Bevianez, to Adrian Gonzalez, everybody else.

57:18It's Flaqo Ndanovsky. There is no question.

57:21Jeff Kassouf:Yeah, just take a look at the table and what Casey Curran did, too, in the regular season. Shield winners, historic season for them, definitely. But let's take it to our MVP nominees. Very interested to hear your answers here because maybe it's not too clear. And this is on the word two. Delphine Cascarino, Esther Gonzalez, Manaka Matsukubo, Villa Sanerato, and Temwa Chawinga. Allie, who's your pick?

57:47Cristina Alexander:I mean, every single one of those players deserves to be an MVP. They were that for each of their teams respectively and had incredible seasons. But you might be surprised if my MVP picked this year because I've got to go with Monaka from the North Carolina Courage. I know that they obviously didn't make the playoffs, and they were somewhat inconsistent this year. That was one of the main reasons why you don't see them in the playoffs. But she has been unbelievable, and she had 11 goals, four assists. She's done it all. She's one of Japan's youngest stars, most technical. Just her ability, she's skillful, she's crafty.

58:29Cristina Alexander:She's such a smart player who can fit in any team in this league. And it's unfortunate that they couldn't make it through, but the way she carried that group game in and game out was so impressive. So she's the type of player that makes everyone around her better. And I think if she had more of that consistent support with the players around her, I really think that they would have been in a completely different position. And then she herself, you know, could have carried this team through the playoffs and done really well.

59:04Jeff Kassouf:Yeah, I'd love to see her nominated for this MVP award. Jeff, who's your pick? The tables have turned on hipster picks. Yeah, 100%. I always get that label, but I like it. I mean, listen, I think Monaka, best player in the back half of the season. Yeah. But for me, again, it's Temo Shuenga. I mean, I didn't need the quarterfinal to affirm what we already knew. But again, you look at what they were without Chowinga in that quarterfinal. Back-to-back golden boots, 15 goals. Just a player who, like, singularly in this league makes her team play different and every opponent play different. Like, there's nobody who has to be accounted for more in this league than Temo Chowinga.

59:47But she's inevitable. And the MVP award is inevitable. Back to back. I'll say it. No way. No way she's not winning this.

59:57Jeff Kassouf:Sometimes the obvious answer is the right answer. Vladko probably. Temel probably. But we're still in the probably. But you will be able to find out the winners on ESPN2 November 19th. So looking forward to NWSL Awards. We have the music, too, to get us warmed up for that. Game show.

1:00:19Jeff Kassouf:News we love to see. Atlanta will be the home of the NWSL's 17th franchise. The owner will be Arthur Blanks' AMB Sports Entertainment. They also own MLS's Atlanta United and the NFL team Atlanta Falcons. For a record free of$165 million, the team will begin playing in 2028. Jeff, you had all the information, too. I read your article. Michael, what stands out to you the most about Atlanta being the home of the 17th franchise? Well, we've been talking about Atlanta for seven years coming into this league, at least in the background. So I think, you know, 14 years since the Atlanta beat played in a league that doesn't exist anymore.

1:00:58And since then, the market has just totally evolved into a huge soccer market. We've seen what Atlanta United has done. U.S. soccer is moving there. So I think this is, and the seventh biggest media market, which is a huge deal for everybody at the league headquarters. You hear about it all the time, right? So I think all of those things add up. It's a soccer city. It's a big city. It's good for media. And I think that they're going to treat it. I mean, we see it, right? They're going to fit Mercedes-Benz Stadium in such a way that it'll be made for NWSL around 28 ,000. I think that they're going to go in with the ambition of selling that out and maybe having to open up the upper bowl, right?

1:01:33That's what Atlanta United did right from the get-go with 50 ,000 fans a game. So, yeah, I think it's good. It's a little bit surprised by the timing just in that, you know, it kind of came in this process that's changed in this expansion process. But, yeah, I think this is going to be a huge deal for the league. And it'll push everybody else forward because Atlanta's not coming in to just be average, right? I mean, on the field, off the field. And there are teams we've talked about on this show that need to catch up. And this adds another team to the haves and have not conversation. I'll put them right in the halves.

1:02:03They don't have to. They're not playing a game for two and a half years. They're in the halves.

1:02:06Jeff Kassouf:Yeah, Atlanta United, at one point, more fans were going to see them than they were the Atlanta Falcons, so definitely a lot of soccer fans. Allie, what did you think of the news?

1:02:16Cristina Alexander:Yeah, it's really exciting. It's a beautiful city. It's a soccer city. Obviously, we see that, what Jeff just talked about with Atlanta United. Also, U.S. soccer. That's the new home for U.S. soccer and our new facility there. So it's going to be an amazing franchise, an amazing team. There's going to be so many supporters. I'm just, you know, I'm just nervous about the, you know, diluting the league a little bit. I just I just don't want that to happen. And we have to just, you know, make sure we're taking care and that we are, you know, considering, you know, each and every city and new team that's coming in and taking time to make those, you know, decisions.

1:02:58Cristina Alexander:And so that's that's my only concern, I think, at this rapid pace. So we just have to be careful with that and make sure we're doing it the right way. But Atlanta was always on even my radar, you know, wanting to have another East Coast team in such a such an amazing city. And I know that they are going to fill the seats immediately. So there's going to be no problem in the support there. And it's I'm sure going to be such an amazing franchise to play in and in stadium and atmosphere. It's going to be like competing with Rowdy Audi. So I'm sure Atlanta is going to back the women's team and it's going to have a lot of support, you know, along with U.S.

1:03:40Cristina Alexander:soccer being there. So so it's exciting. But we just have to make sure that we're careful, you know, and continuing to add franchises along. It doesn't dilute the league in a way that, you know, could could be a detriment.

1:03:55Jeff Kassouf:Yeah. Two new ones already coming in next season. Totally agree with what you're saying, Ali. It is very exciting, but step by step, and we'll see what Atlanta can do. Already, my sister lives in Atlanta, and I already told her about it. I'm very excited, so it's another reason to go visit my sister, not that I need a lot of reasons to go visit her. It's time to run it back, starting with what we saw this weekend from Lindsey Heaps with her third-league goal, Jeff. Yeah, coming from deep area, right? Corner kick up, nice set play, well executed, and then a really deep run to hit this really well.

1:04:31Low, through traffic, nicely finished.

1:04:35Jeff Kassouf:Yeah, it was a great, great finish there from her, not only Lindsey Heaps, but also Alyssa Thompson in the Derby this weekend, scoring her first WSL goal, Allie.

1:04:50Cristina Alexander:I mean, this was unbelievable. Also, you know, she's basically leaning backwards, backwards which is difficult to keep the ball on target and the way she just lifts it kind of chips it over the goalkeeper was brilliant and I am so happy that she found success in that moment you could see how excited she was and her teammates as well but beautiful moments so many Americans

1:05:14Jeff Kassouf:abroad yeah saw so many angles of the celebration it's just great video all around great games for you coming up this weekend. Liverpool facing Chelsea, 7 a.m. Eastern, ESPN Plus, ESPN2 in the app. Also, Tottenham Hotspur facing Arsenal. That's 9.30 a.m. Eastern, all on Sunday. We will see you there.

1:05:39Jeff Kassouf:Alright, let's take it to our top 10 starting in style with Barcelona and Vicky Lopez from distance, Jeff. Yeah, I mean, And top corner, look at this. I mean, Barcelona just, they execute everything well. And this is another set piece. And then top corner curling. Yeah. Yeah. We could run a whole top ten of those. We definitely could. I don't think it would be a challenge. Let's take it to NCAA, Faith Weber for Utah Valley. Allie.

1:06:07Cristina Alexander:Yeah, this was a really good vision, too, to hit this immediately. Unfortunate bounce makes it tougher the goalkeeper. But well done to hit this first time. It's really hard to do and keep it on frame.

1:06:20Jeff Kassouf:Goal so nice. We're going to see it twice here. Number eight for Alyssa Thompson in this one against Arsenal, Jeff. Yeah, I mean, what a way to score your first league goal for Chelsea. I mean, like Ali said, leaning back, the chip. I mean, if free is a goalkeeper like that, especially in such a big game, I think probably disappointed that it didn't hold up as the winner. But, I mean, she'll remember that one for a long time. As she should, too, especially the celebration is just so good. but it means a lot to her. Let's take a two-hour number seven back to NCAA. We go Lola Wojcik for Milwaukee versus Green Bay Alley.

1:06:57Cristina Alexander:Yeah, I mean, she takes this. It reminded me of the Marta. The Marta penalty kick. She takes it alone by herself, obviously taking space. Upper 90. Wow, what a shot.

1:07:11Jeff Kassouf:What a shot indeed. Let's take a two-hour number six, Muriel. Taylor for Aston Villa versus Man United, Jeff. Yeah, that's, I mean, when that ball pops out, I mean, that's why that player is there in these situations, right? Picking up the trash. Well, taking, I'll take that trash, right? I'll take any kind of trash if I'm scoring goals in a big game. Yeah, well taken. Really well taken. One man's trash is another man's treasure, clearly. Let's take it to our number five, Lindsey Heaps Alley for Lille.

1:07:45Cristina Alexander:Yeah, she's doing what she does best. I feel like I've seen this once or twice, whether that be in training or in games. You know, no pressure. She just is able to take this, hit it low, right on target, in the back of the net. Well done. No deflection, just clean shot. I mean, nobody, nobody saw her coming.

1:08:05Jeff Kassouf:Let's take it to our number four with more WSL, Evelina Sumanen for Spurs, Jeff. Always love a good free kick, right? And this is, it's actually kind of tough centrally, right? You got to pick where you're going to go. You're going to go over, around. And I mean, this is just spectacularly placed. It truly is. That takes us into our number three. To France we go, Laura Bourgoin from Marseille Alley.

1:08:35Cristina Alexander:Amazing set piece. Just the vision on this, to be able to lift it over the wall and hit it right into the top corner to make it so difficult for the goalkeeper. Brilliant, brilliant goal. That is not easy to do.

1:08:48Jeff Kassouf:No, it's not. Let's take it to NCAA again at BYU's Allie Walbrook versus Kansas, Jeff. From way downtown, BYU, look at this. I mean, this is vision. Curling from the inside out perfectly. I mean, this is one you remember. I mean, spectacular goal. Anytime Kansas gets scored on, makes me happy. Oh, I went to Mizzou. All right. I like you. Number one on a different topic. Real Madrid's Linda Caicedo. Not surprising to see her alley. Take it all the way.

1:09:29Cristina Alexander:I mean, that was unbelievable. Just taking it from one side of the 18-yard box to the opposite end. Unbelievable. I think her teammates were probably even so surprised that that happened. But it's Linda Caicedo. She can do brilliant things. Well done.

1:09:50Jeff Kassouf:Yeah, speaking of surprises, it was my birthday yesterday. And apparently I'm getting music. I'm getting a cake. Thank you. Thank you guys so much. This is my greatest scare at always. talking women's soccer and WSL. This cake smells so good. I don't want to drop it. Mordida? Let's go for it. Yay! Whoa!

1:10:19Croix Bethune:That's perfect team.

1:10:22Jeff Kassouf:We're back on Sunday. Oh my god, this is icing off my face. So excited for what's coming up this weekend. Let's go! Semifinals! Team dinner! We're going to cheers to a little bit of everything that we've had this year. here on Football W. Thank you, guys. You're the best. Allie, Jeff. Happy birthday.

1:10:42Cristina Alexander:You deserve it.

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1:11:24Croix Bethune:Tonight, La Quinta. Tomorrow, you shine. Book your next work trip at LaQuinta.com. Terms and conditions apply.