Barbra Banda scored in the 37th minute and the Orlando Pride beat the Washington Spirit 1-0 on Saturday night to win their first National Women’s Soccer League championship.
Banda dribbled into the right side of the box and made a move past a defender before kicking the ball with her left foot past goalkeeper Aubrey Kingsbury. Banda earned the championship MVP award and became the first player in the NWSL to score in each round of the playoffs.
Orlando’s win also gave veteran Brazilian star Marta her first NWSL title.
“I believe that God knows when the right time is for things to happen,” Marta said.
The Pride’s midfielder Angelina was nearly called for a push before passing it to Banda, but the VAR determined the play was fair.
“It feels good to win the championship in the playoffs and I’m proud of this team,” Banda said. “It feels natural …