1. The Orlando Pride continue their hot start to the season after beating the San Diego Wave 1-0 from INTER&Co Stadium. Through five games this season, they are now 2-0-3 — one of the best starts to a season they've had. This also marks the first time a home side has won the matchup between the two sides, with the away teams taking wins last season.
2. It was a dominant performance from start to finish for Orlando, allowing four total shots with only one on target. The Pride could have had multiple goals if not for San Diego goalkeeper Kailen Sheridan. Eight shots on target for them was a season-high, with most of those coming in the first half, while offensive threats Adriana and Barbra Banda were on the bench. Considering the Wave are coming off a trophy-winning season, it's a massive result for Orlando early in the year.
3. Summer Yates, who was named Star of the Match, presented by Heineken, following the final whistle, scored the only goal of the game. The goal itself came from constant pressure by the Pride front line, forcing multiple saves and blocks. Eventually, the ball came to Adriana, pushing it wide to Kerry Abello. With space ahead of her, she burst into the box, firing a shot that Sheridan parried right to Yates, who put it in.
4. The progression of Yates as a player has been a massive one from 2023 to 2024. Hard work in the offseason has led the third-round pick last year to earn integral minutes with the team this season, now also leading the team in goals along with Marta. She led numerous statistical categories, including dribbles, one-v-one duels and chances created, showing just how much her game has grown from year to year. The future is bright for the young midfielder.
5. One of the most anticipated debut's in NWSL history, Barbra Banda stepped onto the pitch for the first time for the Pride, coming into the game in the 61st minute and almost immediately having an impact. The Zambian international created three scoring opportunities for herself, showing off her pace and strength on the ball in the limited action she played. A massive contingent of Zambian fans came out to support their hometown hero as her tenure in the City Beautiful begins.
6. Another big moment for the Pride was the return of Brazilian center-back Rafaelle to the team, subbing in for Yates in the 74th minute. The defender has missed all previous games after suffering an injury before the season started, forcing Orlando to play with a makeshift backline thus far. Her return will help solidify an already stalwart defense.
7. Back-to-back clean sheets for the Pride this year is also massive, considering the aforementioned makeshift backline. The job that Kylie Strom has done at centerback should not go unnoticed, alongside the always consistent Emily Sams. Head Coach Seb Hines, a former defender himself, has to be chuffed to bits at their performances.
8. The Pride will now head back on the road next Friday night as they take on the Washington Spirit in the nation's capital. Kickoff for that one is set for 7:30 p.m. ET.
