CHICAGO — Chicago’s first two regular-season games were against the previous year’s NWSL Championship participants. First, they took a point against North Carolina at WakeMed Soccer Park in the season opener. Then, it was a matchup against the Portland Thorns in Chicago’s first game at SeatGeek Stadium. 

The 12,967 fans in attendance were not disappointed as a back-and-forth matchup ensued. Portland struck first in the 16th minute, but Chicago responded with two goals of their own to give them a 2-1 lead after only 20 minutes. 

The Thorns responded by taking a 4-3 lead in the 87th minute, but Chicago continued to fight for their fans. The Red Stars kept the pressure on the Portland defense in an attempt to find the equalizer. Then in the 90th minute came the breakthrough. 

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Morgan Brian found Sam Kerr with a great pass in Portland’s half of the field. The striker was able to quickly dish the ball for a quick give-and-go that placed Kerr in the 18-yard box. Her shot was deflected, but Yuki Nagasato tracked the ball down and with one quick flick put the ball into the back of the net for the tying goal and earn Chicago a point in a 4-4 draw and continued their unbeaten start to the season.