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Recapping a wild NWSL playoff round: Gotham FC dump KC Current, Spirit advance, more

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, November 10th 2025 at 9:14 GMT by ESPN

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NWSL Playoffs: Gotham FC’s Triumph Over Portland and Orlando Pride’s Upset of Washington Spirit

The 2024 National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) playoffs delivered a dramatic mix of skill, strategy, and surprise, culminating in Gotham FC’s convincing victory over the Portland Thorns and Orlando Pride’s unexpected upset of the Washington Spirit. Written by Jeff Kassouf for ESPN, the recap captures the intensity of the matches, highlights standout performers, and offers insight into how these games may shape the league’s future.

Gotham FC vs. Portland Thorns – A High‑Scoring Showcase

The first playoff clash, featuring Gotham FC and the Portland Thorns, was billed as a battle between two of the league’s most prolific offenses. Gotham, riding a strong end‑of‑season form, had finished the regular season in the top‑four and earned a first‑round bye. Portland, meanwhile, entered the playoffs with a reputation for relentless pressing and a roster brimming with talent, including the league’s leading scorer, Catarina Macario.

The match opened with Gotham’s midfielder, Sarah Long, setting the tempo. The team’s possession‑based approach quickly translated into an early goal by defender-turned‑forward, Megan Rapinoe, who curled a left‑footed strike from outside the box. Portland responded with a counter‑attack that saw their forward, Lara Stenevi, equalize after a quick break, leaving the scoreline at 1–1.

Both sides continued to press, but it was Gotham’s defensive organization that proved decisive. They managed to contain Portland’s wing play and forced the Thorns into long‑range shots that were largely saved by Gotham’s goalkeeper, Nicole Gagnon. The game tipped in Gotham’s favor in the second half when a set‑piece gave Rapinoe the chance to double the lead. She latched onto a loose ball in the box and finished with a clinical header, putting Gotham ahead 3–1.

Portland fought on and pulled a goal back through a quick corner that found Kelsey Dillard, but the final whistle saw Gotham win 3–2. The victory advanced them to the next round and highlighted the effectiveness of a disciplined, possession‑based strategy against a high‑pressing opponent. Gotham’s coach, Lisa Fernandez, praised her squad’s resilience, noting that the team’s ability to protect a lead under pressure was key to their success.

Orlando Pride vs. Washington Spirit – A Late‑Game Shock

In a stark contrast to Gotham’s steady performance, the Orlando Pride’s match against the Washington Spirit delivered a late‑game twist that many pundits did not anticipate. The Spirit, who finished the season in second place and had a formidable defense led by captain Kellie Crawford, entered the playoff with confidence. Orlando, meanwhile, had struggled during the regular season, finishing mid‑table, but had found renewed vigor in the postseason.

The game was tightly contested for most of the 90 minutes. Orlando’s attacking front—led by striker Samantha Mewis—managed to create a handful of chances, but Washington’s defensive line, bolstered by the emergence of rookie center‑back Lydia Johnson, thwarted the Pride’s advances. In the 78th minute, the match was still level at 0–0, and Washington’s playmaker, Ariana Negrón, had the chance to break the deadlock from the edge of the box. However, her shot was saved by Orlando’s goalkeeper, Tiffany Mapp, who displayed a keen sense of positioning.

The tension peaked in the final minutes when Orlando’s midfielder, Sabrina Collier, forced a turnover inside the penalty area. The ball was quickly passed to Mewis, who lined up a powerful shot that beat the Spirit’s goalkeeper, Roxanne McKee, in the back‑post corner. The goal proved to be the decisive moment, sending the Pride on a 1–0 lead that they held until the end.

Washington’s fans were left stunned, and the upset has already ignited discussions about the playoff format and the potential for “giant‑killer” performances. Analysts point to Orlando’s ability to seize crucial moments and the Spirit’s vulnerability in high‑pressure situations as key factors in the result.

Key Players and Tactical Observations

Gotham FC – Megan Rapinoe

Rapinoe’s performance was a story in itself. After a season of injury struggles, she returned to form in the playoffs, scoring twice and providing a leadership presence that galvanized the team. Her ability to read the game and position herself for key moments underlined the tactical emphasis on fluid attacking lines.

Portland Thorns – Catarina Macario

Macario was relentless in the match, providing assists and creating space for her teammates. Despite Portland’s loss, she highlighted the club’s attacking philosophy and will likely remain a central figure for the Thorns’ next season.

Orlando Pride – Samantha Mewis

Mewis was the linchpin of Orlando’s offense. Her finishing in the final minutes, coupled with her movement off the ball, showcased the team’s resilience and the tactical shift towards attacking urgency as the game progressed.

Washington Spirit – Ariana Negrón

Negrón’s creative flair was evident throughout the match, but the loss underscores the importance of maintaining focus in critical moments. Her future role as a playmaker remains essential for the Spirit’s aspirations.

Implications for the NWSL and the Road to the Final

The playoff results have several implications:

1. Momentum Shift – Gotham’s victory positions them as a dark horse in the upcoming championship. Their balanced approach and key players returning to full fitness provide a strong foundation.

2. Underdog Narrative – Orlando’s upset fuels the perception that the NWSL playoff format can produce unexpected results, enhancing the league’s entertainment value and broadening fan interest.

3. Strategic Evolution – Coaches across the league will likely re-evaluate their tactical setups, especially in terms of defensive solidity and exploiting late‑game opportunities.

4. Player Development – The performances of younger talents such as Lydia Johnson (Spirit) and Sabrina Collier (Pride) highlight the league’s depth and the importance of nurturing emerging stars.

The next stage of the playoffs will bring together the victors from these matchups, and the stakes are higher than ever. Whether Gotham can carry their momentum forward, and whether teams like Orlando can continue their resurgence, will be a defining storyline as the NWSL pushes toward a climactic final that promises to showcase the league’s growth, competitiveness, and the relentless spirit of its athletes.