Let's kick off this discussion of the upcoming match between Angel City FC and Orlando Pride, and boy, it's shaping up to be a cracker. Now, turning to past seasons, Orlando has been the campfire marshmallow, toasty on the outside with a soft winning center, reflected in their impressive 9-5-0 regular season record. The Pride's goalkeeper, Anna Moorhouse, is no joke either, with a 7.50 rating and 13 saves. Between you, me, and the post, she's been the wall of China for the Pride.
Let's not forget the Pride's field players; Marta, with her impressive 81.2% accurate pass rate, Barbra Banda throwing a couple of right hooks into the net this season, and Kylie Strom, the pass precisionist with an 87.7% accuracy. Their feet could find a needle in a haystack.
On the other hand, we've got Angel City FC, who've been playing like they have buttered fingers. Their rather unfortunate 4-3-7 regular season record leaves a bit to be desired. But, none can ignore the Herculean efforts of their goalie, Dijana Haračić, with her 6.75 rating and 8 saves. And their top player, Madison Curry? 79.3% accurate pass rate, nothing to sneeze at.
Considering their past matchups, it's felt like the pendulum has swung back and forth a bit. With the last match ending in a 1-1 draw, it just goes to show, they're about as evenly matched as two peas in a pod. Orlando Pride does have the edge in previous encounters, but the ghosts of past games don't win matches.
Yes, dear friends, this matchup is like a hearty bowl of sports soup. You've got the hearty chunks of skill in Orlando Pride, simmered to perfection with a solid goalie and a tight attack line. Then you've got the broth of Angel City FC, a bit more of an acquired taste with a less impressive season record, but with a spoonful of attitude and the ability to provide a little surprise.
So whip out the fortune cookies, because I'm rolling the dice and it's landing on...
Albert’s Prediction: Orlando Pride by 2