Trinity Byars, Kimmi Ascanio lead San Diego to a statement win over Washington
May 15, 2026; San Diego, California, USA; San Diego Wave FC midfielder Kimmi Ascanio (8) pumps her fist after scoring during the second half against Washington Spirit at Snapdragon Stadium. SAN DIEGO — Trinity Byars and Kimmi Ascanio's goals give San Diego Wave FC a statement win over a streaking Washington Spirit squad at Snapdragon Stadium. Byars scored early in her first start, and Ascanio delivered the game-winning header in the 89th minute.
San Diego and Washington entered Friday Night as the top two teams in the league—and the match lived up to expectations. Byars, who overcame adversity to reach this point, scored her first goal in the 6th minute, but the Spirit knotted the game before the break. Ascanio scored inside a crowded box in the final moments.
The Sporting Tribune asked Wave head coach Jonas Eidevall postgame if this was a statement win for the club, and he said the NWSL is a league in which “you can’t get carried away. ” He also added that the team must stay humble, grounded, continue working hard, and focus on the next match. San Diego is coming off a 2-1 road win in Los Angeles against Angel City FC at BMO Stadium.
Dudinha’s two-goal contributions decided the outcome—she scored in the 49th minute, then crossed a ball in the box that found a sprinting Mimi Van Zanten. The rookie defender's first-ever goal was a game-winner in the 81st minute. Before their win over Angel City, the Wave dropped back-to-back games against Portland Thorns and Bay FC.
Byars made her first professional start tonight alongside Gabi Portilho and Dudinha. Ludmila, a veteran striker who has started every game this season, began the game on the bench. Kenza Dali, Ascanio, and Gia Corley anchored the midfield.
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