Angel City FC claimed a dramatic 1-0 National Women’s Soccer League win over Washington Spirit at Audi Field on Saturday, as substitute Maiara Niehues struck the decisive goal in the 88th minute.
For much of the evening, the fixture was finely balanced. Washington held a slight edge in possession at 53.8% and produced 15 shots to Angel City’s 14, but neither side could find a breakthrough during a tense first half that ended 0-0.
Angel City had to manage the match carefully after Savy King was booked in the 26th minute and Evelyn Shores received a yellow card in first-half stoppage time. Washington continued to press after the interval, registering five corners and nine shot assists, yet their 15 efforts yielded only two shots on target.
The visitors stayed in the contest and found their moment late on. Maiara Niehues scored in the 88th minute, converting Angel City’s late pressure into the only goal of the match and silencing the 19,215-strong crowd in Washington, D.C.
Ally Sentnor was booked for Angel City in the 74th minute as the visitors battled through a competitive second half, while their defensive work ensured Washington could not force an equaliser in the closing stages. Angel City finished with three shots on target and six corners, making their late chance count.
The result lifts Angel City’s record to 12-6-8, while Washington drop to 14-4-8. The Spirit next host Houston Dash on October 4, while Angel City return home to face Gotham FC the same day.
