Alyssa Thompson’s first two goals of the season powered Angel City FC to a 2-1 victory over their Southern California rivals San Diego Wave on Saturday, ending the team’s three-game NWSL losing streak.
Thompson’s first goal came in the 20th minute after she capitalized on a defensive error, dribbling around the goalkeeper and finishing with a left-footed shot.
The poise. The finish.
— National Women’s Soccer League (@NWSL) August 24, 2024
Alyssa Thompson is a serious talent! pic.twitter.com/rPbsz6EVvx
She celebrated by racing to the Angel City bench, where fellow forward and Los Angeles native Christen Press embraced her.
Things you love to see: After scoring her first goal today (there was another while I prepped this) Alyssa Thompson ran to the #AngelCityFC sideline to celebrate with Christen Press 🥰 pic.twitter.com/tmPHot85Gt
— Taylor Vincent (@tayvincent6) August 24, 2024
Thompson doubled the lead in the 29th minute after a 40-yard dribble, becoming just the second teenager in NWSL history to score multiple goals in a regular-season game.
Alyssa Thompson notches her first-ever brace in all competitions in style 🤩 pic.twitter.com/zV6TIfKj0P
— National Women’s Soccer League (@NWSL) August 24, 2024
The match was also significant for the return of Christen Press, who made her first regular season appearance in 26 months after recovering from a severe ACL injury that required four surgeries. Press, a two-time World Cup champion, entered the game in the 89th minute to a warm reception.
The people love Christen 🖤
— National Women’s Soccer League (@NWSL) August 24, 2024
Christen Press returns to regular season action tonight for the first time since 2022! pic.twitter.com/CAMB6u3jST
Angel City FC and its fans weren’t the only ones celebrating Press’ return. Other NWSL players also rejoiced as one of the most prolific scorers in the league made her return.
All love from Kerolin 🫶 pic.twitter.com/JqlRlPuPnp
— National Women’s Soccer League (@NWSL) August 25, 2024