🇿🇲 Kundananji Shines in NWSL Thriller as Bay FC Draw with Houston Dash

Zambian forward Racheal Kundananji put in another influential performance in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) as her side, Bay FC, battled to a dramatic 2-2 draw away to Houston Dash in a Saturday night clash full of action.

While the match will be remembered for late drama and end-to-end football, Zambians had their eyes firmly on Kundananji, whose blistering pace and vision helped set up Bay FC’s second goal and kept the Houston defence on high alert throughout.

Bay FC, trailing 1-0 at halftime, turned things around quickly in the second half. Penelope Hocking equalized in the 53rd minute, before Kundananji torched her marker just three minutes later, dragging the keeper wide and laying off the ball for Rachel Hill to calmly slot home her first of the season.

The combination of Kundananji’s explosiveness and playmaking has become a growing weapon for Bay FC, and this game only reaffirmed her value to the squad.

But just as Bay looked set to snatch all three points, Houston found a late equalizer through substitute Messiah Bright in the 88th minute. Despite a nervy end, including two close chances for the Dash, Bay FC held on thanks to key saves from goalkeeper Jordan Silkowitz.

“It was a good point away from home,” said Bay FC coach Albertin Montoya. “We showed great character, especially coming from behind. Kundananji gave us another strong shift, she was key in creating that second goal.”

While Kundananji didn’t get on the scoresheet, her impact was undeniable, stretching defenders, creating chances, and playing unselfishly for the team.

Bay FC now heads into the international break, with Kundananji expected to return to national duty with the Copper Queens, who are preparing for friendlies against Botswana and South Africa.

Bay FC resumes league play on June 7 when they host Portland Thorns FC in San Jose.