The Orlando Pride made history by becoming the first team to secure a place in the 2024 NWSL Playoffs, clinching a postseason berth before even stepping onto the field. The action-packed weekend kicked off with Seattle Reign FC facing off against Angel City FC at BMO Stadium. Alyssa Thompson scored early to give the hosts the lead, but the Reign quickly turned the tide with three goals in less than 30 minutes, including a crucial penalty kick from Sofia Huerta. Despite a late goal from Angel City, the Reign emerged victorious with their third consecutive win. This result officially secured a playoff spot for the Orlando Pride, marking their first postseason appearance since 2017.
The league-leading Orlando Pride continued their pursuit of the 2024 NWSL Shield by securing a 1-0 win on the road against the Chicago Red Stars. Brazilian star Marta netted the game’s only goal in the 37th minute, extending Orlando’s win streak to six games and their unbeaten run to an impressive 20 consecutive matches.
In another exciting matchup, the Washington Spirit edged past the Portland Thorns with a 2-1 victory at Audi Field. After falling behind early in the second half, Trinity Rodman showcased her skills by equalizing in the 60th minute with a spectacular solo effort. Rodman then turned provider by setting up the game-winning goal for Leicy Santos in stoppage time, securing the Spirit’s third win in their last four games. Rodman’s stellar performance highlighted her growing influence in the league, setting new records with her goal-scoring and assist contributions.
The Kansas City Current ended their three-game losing streak with a 1-0 win over Utah Royals FC, with Temwa Chawinga extending her NWSL record scoring streak to eight games with the decisive goal. Chawinga’s scoring prowess has cemented her as the league’s top scorer, closely followed by Barbra Banda of the Orlando Pride and Sophia Smith of the Portland Thorns.
Bay FC continued their impressive form with a 1-0 victory over Racing Louisville, courtesy of a goal from Nigerian international Asisat Oshoala. The win marked Bay FC’s fourth victory in their last six games, propelling the expansion side to seventh in the league standings.
Defending NWSL Champions NJ/NY Gotham FC maintained their fourth-place position in the league standings with a hard-fought 2-1 win over the Houston Dash at Red Bull Arena. Spanish international Esther Gonzalez sealed the victory with a late goal in stoppage time, assisted by U.S. winger Lynn Williams, who showcased her playmaking abilities. Williams, with three goals and one assist in the season, played a crucial role in Gotham FC’s triumph.
The emotional highlight of the weekend was the farewell match of soccer legend Alex Morgan, as she bid adieu to her professional career with San Diego Wave FC. Despite the 4-1 loss to the North Carolina Courage, the focus was on Morgan, who announced her retirement earlier in the week. The two-time World Cup champion and Olympic gold medalist played the first 13 minutes of the match, symbolizing the end of a remarkable 15-year career that transformed women’s soccer globally.
In addition to the thrilling on-field action, there were notable developments in European and Concacaf competitions involving NWSL players. Emily Fox and Arsenal FC advanced to the second round of qualifying for the UEFA Women’s Champions League with convincing victories. Meanwhile, Portland Thorns FC and NJ/NY Gotham FC made their mark in the Concacaf W Champions Cup, showcasing their strength in continental club competition.
Looking ahead, upcoming matches featuring U.S. Women’s National Team players promise more exciting moments for fans. The NWSL schedule includes matchups between top teams like North Carolina Courage, Orlando Pride, and Washington Spirit, offering compelling contests as the playoff race heats up.
As the NWSL season progresses, the competition intensifies, with teams vying for playoff berths and the coveted NWSL Shield. The dedication and skill displayed by players like Trinity Rodman, Temwa Chawinga, and Asisat Oshoala highlight the talent and depth of the league, setting the stage for thrilling encounters in the weeks to come. With the regular season nearing its conclusion, the race for playoff spots and the battle for the top spot in the league standings promise riveting action for fans and players alike.