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VIDEO: Sophia Smith nets stupendous brace as Portland Thorns and USWNT star blank Chicago Red Stars

Smith's 16-minute brace came in the 10th and 26th minutes of the match, with the first being a brilliant effort. The 23-year-old toyed with three defenders before slotting in a curling effort to open the scoring.The second, a composed finish in the box, ended up being the game-winner in a 2-0 victory.

WHAT HAPPENED?

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">SOPHIA SMITH DID A MADNESS 😤 🎥: <a href="https://twitter.com/IONNWSL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IONNWSL</a> <a href="https://t.co/qV1UsHJANf">pic.twitter.com/qV1UsHJANf</a>— Attacking Third (@AttackingThird) <a href="https://twitter.com/AttackingThird/status/1784369851311485170?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Sophia Smith scores goals for fun 😎 🎥: <a href="https://twitter.com/IONNWSL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IONNWSL</a> <a href="https://t.co/9cxPgNwO8P">pic.twitter.com/9cxPgNwO8P</a>— Attacking Third (@AttackingThird) <a href="https://twitter.com/AttackingThird/status/1784373221573169496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2024</a></blockquote>
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WATCH THE CLIPS

Smith leads the NWSL in scoring as of Saturday evening with five goals in six appearances this season. On top of her efficiency in front of the net, she has two assists as well, certifying herself as an early frontrunner for 2024 MVP.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

The Thorns are back in action next weekend when they take on Bay FC in the two clubs first-ever meeting. Smith, meanwhile, will look to add onto her fiery start to the season.

WHAT NEXT FOR SOPHIA SMITH AND THE THORNS?

VIDEO: Sophia Smith nets stupendous brace as Portland Thorns and USWNT star blank Chicago Red Stars | Goal.com

A lovely first half brace from Sophia Smith led the Portland Thorns to a narrow 2-0 victory over the Chicago red Stars Saturday.