A women’s soccer team with a majority Asian American ownership advanced to the National Women’s Soccer League championship finals on Saturday.

The Washington Spirit, owned by Asian American businesswoman Michele Kang, beat NJ/NY Gotham FC on Saturday in a penalty shootout.

Gotham took the lead in the 56th minute with a goal by Esther Gonzalez. It looked like the Spirit was headed home until Hal Hershfelt rescued the team’s hopes in the third minute of stoppage time at the very end of the game. The team went on to win the semi-final in a penalty shootout. Kang celebrated with the players on the field.

Kang joined the Washington Spirit ownership in 2020. She began pursuing majority ownership after former coach Richie Burke resigned in 2021 due to allegations he was abusive towards his players. Fans, frustrated with the team’s handling of the situation, voiced their support for Kang. They called on then-majority owner Steve Baldwin to sell her the team.

Next week, the Spirit will head to Kansas City for the championship game.

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