Super Falcons midfielder Deborah Abiodun played a crucial role on Sunday as she delivered a vital assist that inspired Washington Spirit to a thrilling 2-1 win over San Diego Wave in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL).

The 21-year-old Nigerian star provided the opening goal in a tense contest at Audi Field.

Deborah Abiodun’s Clever Assist Sparks Early Lead

Abiodun, despite enduring a tough evening in midfield where she lost the most duels (10), proved decisive in attack.

In the ninth minute, she delivered a well-timed cross that Rosemonde Kouassi met with a precise header to give the hosts an early lead.

It was Abiodun’s first assist of the season and her second goal contribution in nine appearances for Washington Spirit.

She had earlier opened her account for the club on September 4 in their emphatic 4-0 win over Vancouver Rise in the Concacaf Women’s Champions Cup.

Her creativity on Sunday once again shows why she was brought back from loan and is now featuring actively for the Spirits.

Kouassi’s Last-Gasp Winner Keeps Spirit in Title Chase

The match turned dramatic in the closing stages. San Diego Wave fought back and equalised through Delphine Cascarino in the 95th minute, silencing the home crowd.

Spirit coach’s tactical tweak—bringing on Sofia Cantore for Gift Monday, who had starred with a hat-trick in their previous outing—proved decisive.

In the 98th minute, Cantore repaid the faith by setting up Kouassi for a dramatic stoppage-time winner, sparking wild celebrations among Spirit players and fans.

The victory keeps Washington Spirit in second place in the NWSL standings with 43 points from 23 games, 13 points behind leaders Kansas City.

Next up is a tricky away clash against North Carolina Courage on Sunday, October 12, a fixture that could prove crucial in maintaining their title charge.

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Last Updated on October 5, 2025 10:46 pm by footballrover