Thrilling Match Ends in Draw
In a remarkable display of skill, Ludmila netted three goals within a record-setting span of just 10 minutes during the second half, propelling Chicago Stars FC to a dramatic 3-3 draw against the North Carolina Courage on Friday night. This thrilling encounter saw all six goals scored in the latter half, with four of them occurring in a frantic final quarter of the match.
Chicago Stars FC’s Struggles
With this latest result, the Stars, struggling this season with a record of 1-9-7, continue to look for their first victory in 13 outings. However, they have managed to tie four consecutive matches since the appointment of interim head coach Ella Masar.
North Carolina Courage’s Early Dominance
The North Carolina Courage, currently sitting with a record of 5-6-5, initially took control of the match, establishing a 2-0 lead after the break. Manaka Matsukubo broke through the Stars’ defense, scoring in the 49th minute by deftly chipping the ball over goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher during a one-on-one situation. Tyler Lussi then added a second goal in the 62nd minute, striking from inside the box after seeing her initial shot hit the crossbar and bounce back into play.
Ludmila’s Stunning Comeback
Just when it seemed like the game was slipping away from Chicago, Ludmila ignited a comeback, scoring her first goal in the 76th minute. Demonstrating extraordinary individual skill, she danced past four defenders before blasting a shot from the edge of the box, reducing the deficit to 2-1.
In a stunning twist, she equalized only moments later in the 81st minute, meeting a long pass with a precise low shot that found the net past Courage’s goalkeeper, Casey Murphy.
The Courage responded quickly, with substitute Jaedyn Shaw restoring a temporary lead at 3-2 in the 83rd minute. However, Ludmila wasn’t finished yet; just three minutes later, she completed her hat trick by heading in from a corner, securing a vital draw for the Stars and further solidifying her impact on the game.
