NWSL Washington Spirit already have their playoff ticket, while the rest of the league is still battling for spots. The Chicago Stars are officially out, and Matchweek 23 promises plenty of drama. Here’s a recap of last weekend’s action:
Kansas City Current 4, Chicago Stars FC 1
Current remain unbeatable at home – Debinha opened the scoring in the 7th minute, and after the break Bia Zaneratto doubled the lead. Chicago ended their record run of 870 minutes without conceding thanks to Nádia Gomes, but Chawinga quickly replied with her 14th goal of the season. In stoppage time, Lo’eau LaBonta converted a penalty, equaling the league record. This marked KC’s 18th win, tying the all-time league record.
Gotham FC 3, Portland Thorns FC 0
Gotham controlled the match from the start. Purce scored a header in the 10th minute, Lavelle added one just before halftime, and in the second half she assisted Stengel for 3–0. Goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger kept her ninth clean sheet in club history.
San Diego Wave 1, Orlando Pride 2
Orlando finally broke their long winless streak. Ovalle netted her first NWSL goal in the 8th minute, but Dudinha quickly responded for the Wave also her debut strike. After halftime, Carson Pickett scored the winner from Oihane’s cross.
Racing Louisville 1, Angel City 0
Louisville won thanks to Sarah Weber, who capitalized on a defensive error forced by Emma Sears’ pressing. The visitors had chances in stoppage time, but Jordyn Bloomer and the Racing defense held firm for a clean sheet.
Bay FC 0, Utah Royals 2
The Royals continue their strong run seven games unbeaten. Early goals came from Thomsen and Solórzano, who became the first Guatemalan player to score in the NWSL. Goalkeeper Justus recorded a second consecutive clean sheet.
Washington Spirit 4, Houston Dash 0
The star of the night was Gift Monday – her first-half hat-trick was the fastest in league history. In the final minutes, Cantore added a spectacular backheel strike. Spirit claimed their eighth clean sheet of the season and secured playoff qualification for the second year in a row.
Seattle Reign 2, North Carolina Courage 1
Courage took the lead through Betfort, but Reign equalized quickly thanks to an own goal caused by Huitema’s cross. In the 80th minute, Dahlien sealed the win all four of her rookie-season goals have been game-winners.
Matchweek 22 in the NWSL delivered the full range of emotions from dominant leaders to breakthroughs and dramatic finishes. The biggest highlight was Gift Monday’s historic achievement: the fastest hat-trick in league history, sending Washington Spirit safely into the playoffs. Kansas City Current continue their record-breaking march with their 18th win of the season. Gotham FC proved their offensive power, while Utah Royals maintain their fine form and made history with Solórzano’s goal. Racing Louisville and Seattle Reign stay in the hunt for top spots, while Orlando Pride finally broke their drought. Officially out of playoff contention: the Chicago Stars, who will have to wait for a better season.
