Ludmila’s Hat Trick Salvages Draw for Chicago Red Stars

CHICAGO: In a captivating match held in Bridgeview on Friday, Ludmila orchestrated a remarkable hat trick within a 10-minute stretch of the second half, enabling the Chicago Red Stars to secure a 3-3 draw against the North Carolina Courage.

The second half provided non-stop action, witnessing all six goals scored in the final quarter-hour, creating palpable suspense for the spectators.

Despite failing to win in their preceding 13 encounters, the Red Stars (1-9-7) showcased notable tenacity and resolve under the guidance of interim head coach Ella Masar, sustaining strong spirits through their determined effort.

The Courage (5-6-5) initially seized the initiative, gaining the lead with early goals from Manaka Matsukubo and Tyler Lussi. In the 49th minute, Matsukubo initiated the scoring with a skillful chip over Alyssa Naeher during a one-on-one opportunity.

Lussi extended the advantage in the 62nd minute, launching a shot that rebounded off the crossbar and into the net from inside the penalty area, providing North Carolina with a comfortable lead.

However, Ludmila turned the game around. In the 76th minute, the Brazilian initiated a phenomenal solo run, maneuvering past four defenders and unleashing a powerful shot from the edge of the box to spark the comeback.

She then achieved the equalizer in the 81st minute, eluding Casey Murphy and skillfully evading the offside trap.

North Carolina momentarily reclaimed the lead in the 83rd minute through substitute Jaedyn Shaw; however, Ludmila completed her hat trick in the 86th minute, heading in a corner kick at the far post to clinch the dramatic tie.

The crowd erupted in celebration as Ludmila’s heroic efforts earned the persevering Red Stars a vital point, demonstrating her proficiency and composure and delivering a standout individual performance of the season.