The next Rivalries presented by Ally clash is one fans have had circled on their calendars since the 2024 semifinals: Orlando Pride, teh defending champs, versus top-of-the-table Kansas City Current. It’s a newer rivalry, but it’s already one of the league’s spiciest. The Pride ended the Current's season in spectacular fashion last year and went on to lift the trophy in their own stadium in KC. Now, with a few fresh faces and unfinished business, Kansas City is out to flip the script.

When: Friday, May 16, 2025 - 8:00 pm ET

How to watch: Prime Video

READ: How to Watch the NWSL on Prime Video

1. The Rivalry is Real

This isn’t just a matchup of two top teams, it’s turning into one of the NWSL’s most compelling rivalries. Orlando has had Kansas City’s number since last season, unbeaten in their last three meetings including a massive result in last year’s semifinal where Marta’s late winner sent the Current packing. That match didn’t just end KC’s season, it ended their dream of lifting the trophy on home turf. And to make matters worse, the Pride are still the only team to hand the Current a loss inside CPKC Stadium. With both clubs chasing the top of the table, this matchup is full of unfinished business and playoff-level energy in the middle of May.

2. First Place and Bragging Rights

The stakes couldn’t be higher. Kansas City enters Week 9 as the league leader with 18 points, but Orlando is just two points behind them. A Pride win at home would leapfrog them into first place and extend their dominance in this head-to-head series. It would also be a statement win after experining a few disappointing results the last two weekends. For KC, a win would not only secure first for another week but also build a five-point cushion atop the table—a massive psychological edge heading into summer.

3. Barbra Banda vs. Temwa Chawinga: A Golden Boot Face-Off

When Barbra Banda and Temwa Chawinga are on the pitch, magic happens. Last season, they finished first and second in the Golden Boot race, and they've carried that form into 2025. Each has four goals already, and they remain two of the most feared attacking players in the world. Banda, the reigning Championship MVP who scored the game-winner last Championship, is a game-changer in late moments.

Chawinga, meanwhile, just capped off KC’s 4-1 win over Bay FC with a blistering run from midfield. Their individual brilliance alone is worth the watch, but it’s a privilege to see them play against each other.

4. League’s Hottest Attack vs. One of Its Toughest Defenses

Kansas City’s attack is on another level. They’ve scored multiple goals in seven of eight matches, racking up a league-best 21 goals while conceding just six. Debinha is in MVP form, Chawinga is heating up, and players like Bia Zaneratto and Hailie Mace are contributing all over the field. But they’re about to run into a serious wall: Orlando has allowed just six goals all season and finished 2024 with the league’s best defensive record. Anchored by Anna Moorhouse and a disciplined back line, the Pride have held six of eight opponents to one goal or fewer. It’s immovable force versus unstoppable energy and we get to watch it from the comfort of our living room (unless you’re there in person)!

5. Marta Is Chasing Records and Terrorizing Defenses

Marta can’t help but make history every time she steps on the pitch and this weekend will be no different. One more converted penalty kick ties her with Megan Rapinoe for the all-time regular season NWSL record (14) and one more assist makes her the third player in NWSL history with 40 goals and 20 assists for a single club.

But beyond her records and history and lore, she’s a footballer who enjoys being creative and generally being a nightmare for defenses. Her last goal in 2024, the one that sent the Current home, went viral and to date still makes its rounds on social media.

She also converted a penalty kick against the Current earlier in the season, which handed the Current’s one and only CPKC defeat. Marta is a terror for other teams to face but she’s on another level against the Current.

Catch Orlando Pride as they host the top of the table Kansas City Current tomorrow, May 16th at 8:00 PM ET on Prime Video!