Temwa Chawinga, the vice-captain for the Scorchers, continues to make headlines in the USA after becoming the fastest player in National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) history to score 30 goals.
Chawinga reached the milestone after her lone goal secured a narrow 1-0 victory for the Kansas City Current over Utah Royals in the team’s 15th match of the season. She made a beautiful run after receiving a long pass from the midfield, lifting the ball over the host goalkeeper in the 82nd minute to win the game for the league leaders.
The goal was her 10th of the season, putting her on level with Esther González Rodríguez of Gotham FC. However, with two assists to her name, Chawinga currently tops the standings. This was her 30th NWSL goal, which she achieved in just 40 games. Last season, she also broke the record for most goals in a season with 20, earning her the Golden Boot award.
MORE NEWS FROM WAMPIRA
- Central Region Teams win in week 5 of NBS Bank Championship
- Fazili hails 3-Nation tournament as WAFCON preparations platform
- Scorchers seek turnaround against Lesotho ahead COSAFA and WAFCON
- Scorchers Seek Redemption Against Copper Queens in Must-Win Showdown
- Funny Moyo: The Blessings Singini of Women’s Football
The previous record for the fastest player to reach 30 goals was held by Christen Press, who did so in 51 games. The NWSL officially recognized Chawinga’s achievement on Instagram, writing, “In just 40 regular season games, the KC forward is the fastest to score 30 regular season goals! The previous record? Set by Christen Press in 51 games.”
Chawinga has set several notable records since joining the league, including most goals scored in a single season, the first player to score 20 goals in a season, the first to score in eight consecutive matches, and the first to score against every opponent faced in a season.
The win on Saturday morning brings the Kansas City Current closer to a league triumph with 39 points from 13 wins and two defeats. They now hold a 13-point lead over the second-placed and defending champions, Orlando Pride.
This latest record comes at an exciting time for Chawinga, as she has also been shortlisted for the Ballon d’Or 30-player list. She is the second Malawian player to earn this nomination, following in the footsteps of her older sister, Tabitha Chawinga.
Discover more from Wa Mpira
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
