Next Sunday at 2 p.m., the KC Current will face Gotham FC in the NWSL semifinals, this time on Gotham’s home field. After earning a quarterfinal victory at CPKC Stadium, the Current are looking to reverse last year’s playoff defeat at the same venue.
Local fans rally for a chance at redemption
Kansas City’s growing community of women’s‑soccer supporters is already buzzing. “I hope we get to return the favor and beat them at their home this time,” said longtime fan Matt Huggins. The sentiment was echoed by Rachel Glenn of The Dub, who added, “They beat us here to knock us out. So we’ll do the same to them at their field.”
To accommodate the out‑of‑town crowd, Kansas City’s first women’s sports bar has prepared for a full house. Huggins described the venue as feeling like a “mini stadium” on game days, noting the electric atmosphere as fans gather around televisions to cheer on the girls.
Players focus on preparation and faith
Midfielder Lo' eau LaBonta emphasized how much the community’s support means to the team: “For the team, us, it means everything.” LaBonta also reflected on the season’s ups and downs, saying, “This year we’ve had a lot of highs and lows, so it truly felt like we really just fought for this and got to the playoffs.”
Teammate Croix Bethune highlighted the practical side of the upcoming challenge: “Rest, recovery, but getting ourselves ready to play the next competition.” The squad is balancing travel logistics with a focus on staying sharp for the decisive match.
Watch parties and community spirit
Beyond the bar, the Current will host a watch party at the Current Landing, offering fans another venue to rally together. Huggins summed up the excitement, “It’s going to be a great game.” The collective enthusiasm underscores the growing popularity of women’s soccer in the Kansas City area.
What’s at stake
A victory would send the KC Current to the NWSL final, marking a historic achievement for the club and further cementing Kansas City’s reputation as a supportive market for women’s professional sports. A loss would repeat last year’s outcome, but the team and its supporters remain confident that the energy of the fans and the players’ determination will tip the balance.
As the semifinal approaches, the community’s message is clear: Kansas City stands behind its team, ready to celebrate a win and to continue building a vibrant soccer culture for future generations.
Original reporting: KSHB 41 Kansas City (local) — read the source article.
