By: Jay Kostal
Super Ki
On superhero night, Utah Royals striker Kiana Palacios, nicknamed “Super Ki”, scored in the 17th minute to tie the game at 1-1 against the Legacy. USWNT goalkeeper Mandy McGlynn found Palacios making a dangerous darting run down the right side of the pitch. Palacios allowed the ball to run across her body to her strong right foot before rocketing it into the bottom-left corner of the goal, marking her fourth goal this season.
Late in the second half, Palacios came close to scoring the go–ahead goal, playing a give and go with Japanese international Narumi at the top of the penalty area. With the ball coming back to her right foot, Palacios took a shot without hesitation. The ball thunderously rattled the crossbar before harmlessly bouncing away from the Boston net.
The Mexican international has been a difficult challenge for opposing defenses to contain, whether it be through her relentless pressing or her incredible runs off the shoulders of center backs. With Palacios leading the front press, the Royals have become one of the best teams at creating turnovers in the opposing team’s last third.
While establishing herself as a constant scoring threat, Palacios has also been able to showcase her ability to find her teammates. Assisting the first goal in the Royals recent 2-1 victory against Orlando, the forward has a knack for creating opportunities for herself and others.
Mandy McGlynn Records Second Career Assist, Ties NWSL Record
Palacios’ lone goal was assisted by McGlynn for the second of her career and first of the season. The Utah goalkeeper mentioned that she noticed Boston’s switch before looking up to see Palacios in space and playing her teammate into a dangerous position. With the assist, McGlynn has now equaled Kailen Sheridan in NWSL history with two career assists.
McGlynn's first assist came in a 1-1 draw at home against Bay FC on March 15th, 2025. The Royals goalkeeper took a free kick quickly, playing a threatening ball in behind the away team’s defense and into the feet of then teammate Bianca Saint-Georges.
Up Next
The Royals head back on the road to face off against Houston Dash on Saturday, September 12, kickoff is scheduled for 6:45 p.m. MT.
URFC Next Home Match: 9/20 @ America First Field
Pups at the Pitch Night!
Get a ticket for you and your pup for URFC vs Angel City FC at home! This match also features a halftime Wiener dog race and Swig Sunday $3 drinks at America First Field!
