Three points, a comfortable 2-0 win, and even star veteran Christen Press getting her name on the scoresheet—Angel City couldn’t have asked for more in today’s fixture against the Utah Royals. Yet, it couldn’t quite be called a perfect day at the office for the Los Angeles-based club, as youngster Savy King was forced off the pitch on a stretcher, making the win somewhat bittersweet. The incident saw the entire NWSL  community keep the defender in their thoughts and prayers.

Just when ACFC thought they could catch a break, an unfortunate incident had to make its way. The whole mood after the victory was marred as King suddenly collapsed on the pitch just moments after the hour mark. Everyone couldn’t figure out for a moment what exactly happened until someone sprinted to the sideline to retrieve what might have been an AED.

Next thing you know, over nine paramedics were seen attending to the 20-year-old center back. Of course, the entire incident wasn’t televised or shown on the live stream due to the sensitivity of the events transpiring. Not just fans, but even players were left shocked upon seeing Savy being administered CPR. Constant chest compressions and breaths were given to the American superstar, with even an AED placed on her to deliver shocks or analyze her rhythm.

The entire BMO Stadium was visibly upset, hoping nothing serious happened with the former Bay FC star. Eventually, after a break of almost 10 minutes, King was seen being carted off by the medical team, with players and audiences clapping on her way out. The youngster was quickly taken to the hospital by the emergency medical staff for further tests.

Later, after the game, ACFC communications gave a huge update regarding their highly-rated center-back. The statement read, “Savy was transported by EMS to the hospital following a medical event on the field. She is responsive and undergoing further evaluation. We thank everyone for their concern and support.”

While the entire incident left the mood in the stadium bittersweet, the players still had to keep their heads up and finish the game. As King was taken off the pitch on a medical emergency cart, it was Megan Reid who came on in her place around the 85th minute.

With Angel City already ahead thanks to Christen Press’ goal, the additional 10 minutes of injury time saw Alyssa Thompson double the lead. The final whistle blew with the home side taking all three points—but, of course, with a heavy heart, as the entire incident surrounding Savy King shook the NWSL fanbase to the core.

NWSL community keep Angel City starlet in their prayers

It was indeed heartbreaking to see such a promising young talent like Savy King face a terrifying on-field emergency. Not to mention how young she is in her professional career. In response, the entire National Women’s Soccer League community came together, flooding the internet with love, support, and heartfelt wishes for Savy’s speedy recovery.

Messages like “Sending our love to Savy King ❤️” were echoing across all social media platforms. It’s evident that this incident had everyone on edge. Everything was going fine for the youngster—until suddenly, she was down on the pitch. Just looking at the pictures gives us a glimpse of how intense the scene must have been, so one can only imagine what those who witnessed the moment live must be going through.

Well, not just the internet had King in their prayers. Interestingly, after the game, both Angel City and Utah Royals players formed a big circle while keeping hands on each other’s shoulders to pray for the defender’s well-being. After all, everyone on the pitch saw the incident as a sobering reminder of how fragile the game—and life—can be: “Prayers to Savy King, that’s so scary.”

Like we said, seeing King collapse on the ground left a lump in the throat of everyone present at the stadium. In fact, one fan who was at BMO today even shared his terrifying experience, saying that hearing she was safe was the only thing that brought a sigh of relief: “This is a great update. Super scary to watch in the stadium. I swear 19k supporters were holding their breath.”

Doesn’t every second feel heavy on the heart? We hope this update from acting coach Eleri Earnshaw during the post-match presser brings some comfort. She said, “King was transported to the hospital… she was evaluated… she is responsive….” And here’s the most relieving part: “She’s in good hands.” But even after hearing this, fans aren’t letting up on the prayers: “Very good news. Praying for her and the family🙏.”

Today could have been an inch-perfect day for Angel City. Beyond securing a solid 2-0 win, the real highlight was veteran Christen Press finding the back of the net. Yet, moments after she lit up the BMO crowd, the atmosphere quickly turned tense. Now, all anyone can do is hope that Savy King returns to full fitness soon. Well, King, you have a message from your NWSL rivals as well, as Utah Royals wrote, “Our thoughts are with Savy King”

Well, this is just a glimpse of the reactions seen across X for the Angel City star. While it’s true that Savy King is stable for now, fans certainly won’t feel at ease until they hear directly from the American youngster herself that she’s okay. Let’s hope that happens soon, and moving forward, we pray the beautiful game never has to witness such life-threatening moments again.