In a stunning upset, the underdog Phoenix Lightning defeated the defending champion Metro United 3-2 in overtime to advance to the championship final for the first time in franchise history.
The Lightning entered the playoffs as the seventh seed but have defied all expectations with a remarkable postseason run. Last night’s victory at packed Memorial Stadium marked their fourth consecutive playoff win against higher-seeded opponents.
Forward Marcus Rodriguez scored the game-winning goal with just 47 seconds remaining in overtime, sending the crowd of 45,000 into a frenzy. “I can’t even describe this feeling,” Rodriguez said after the match. “We believed in ourselves when nobody else did.”
Metro United took an early 2-0 lead in the first half, appearing to be in control. However, the Lightning mounted a stunning comeback with goals from Sarah Kim and Diego Fernandez to force overtime.
Lightning goalkeeper Jamie Thompson made several crucial saves throughout the match, including a spectacular double-save in the 89th minute that kept her team’s championship dreams alive.
The championship final is scheduled for next Sunday at National Stadium. The Lightning will face either the Rapids or City FC, who play tomorrow in the second semifinal.
Ticket sales for the final have already broken records, with remaining seats expected to sell out within hours of the opponent being determined.
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