Minnesota Aurora Advances to USL W League Quarterfinals with 1-0 Win over Chicago City SC

Flint, Mich. – A penalty kick goal from Arianna Del Moral was the insurance Minnesota Aurora needed to beat Chicago City SC, 1-0, on Thursday afternoon to advance to the USL W League quarterfinals. 

Addy Weichers served a corner kick into the 18-yard box, and a Chicago City defender pulled Maya Hansen’s jersey, bringing her to the ground and drawing a penalty kick. In the 24th minute, Del Moral stepped up to the spot and converted the penalty for the lone goal of the match. 

“It was good for us to be in this position in the playoffs. Every game going forward is going to be just like that. Everyone’s season is on the line, so we’re going to get everybody’s best game,” said Head Coach Nicole Lukic. “We created a lot of scoring opportunities, and although they didn’t go our way, one was enough.” 

Minnesota Aurora maintained possession for most of the second half and held Chicago City to zero shots on goal. When frustration boiled over in the 77th minute, City’s Sophie Jamie was sent off the field with a red card after a foul from behind. Aurora generated a flurry of shots but was unable to find another goal despite the player advantage. 

Minnesota Aurora will play the winner of Flint City AFC and Indy Eleven in the USL W League quarterfinals. The match will be held on July 8 at 2 p.m. CST at Atwood Stadium.