Lindsey Heaps leads Denver Summit to 2-1 win over Portland Thorns in NWSL debut

US national team captain Lindsey Heaps made her debut for expansion club Denver Summit FC in a home match against the Portland Thorns. The game, played at Centennial Stadium before a sell‑out crowd of more than 12,000, ended 2-1 in Denver's favor. Portland took the lead in the 23rd minute when Sophia Wilson converted a penalty. Denver equalised in first‑half stoppage time when co‑captain Janine Sonis scored. Late in the match, Natalie Means netted the winning goal in the 86th minute.

Heaps signed with Denver Summit in January on a contract through 2029 after completing her final season with French side Lyon. The debut was highlighted as a major boost for the National Women’s Soccer League, which has sought to retain top USWNT talent domestically. Heaps, a native of Golden, Colorado, expressed gratitude for returning to her home state.

The victory moved Denver Summit to a 5-4-4 record and kept the team competitive in the league standings.