Francisca Ordega gets off Washington Spirit’s disabled list

A 90th minute substitution at the Maryland SoccerPlex on 26 August marked Francisca Ordega’s return to action for Washington Spirit as they lost 2-1 to visiting Chicago Red Stars in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL).

The Nigerian international only featured in the five minutes of added time after replacing Alyssa Kleiner.

Ordega was placed on a 45-day disabled list due to the chondral defect on her right knee which she suffered in July during her side’s 2-2 draw against Orlando Pride and has undergone arthroscopic surgery as a result.

The 23-year-old was Spirit’s leading scorer with four goals and three assists before injury struck and – even after six weeks – she still is considering that Cheyna Williams, who has the same number of goals, falls short on assists.

Ordega’s return is definitely a huge boost for Jim Gabarra’s Spirit who have only managed one win in her absence.

Washington Spirit next play North Carolina Courage at home on 30 August.