It was an unforgettable Decision Day, with Racing Louisville securing their first-ever playoff spot. Both Portland and Orlando earned the right to host next weekend’s quarterfinals, joining KC Current and Washington Spirit, who have already secured home matches.
Kansas City Current vs. San Diego Wave (2-1 KC)
The Wave seemed poised to hand the Current another loss, but the top-ranked team turned things around. Dudinha kicked off the scoring just eight minutes into the match with a nutmeg goal against her fellow Brazilian, Lorena. San Diego managed to contain Kansas City in the first half, but the second half saw the Current surge. Debinha contributed with a beautifully curled free kick from outside the box, marking her eighth goal of the season. Nichelle Prince secured the win with a goal 21 minutes later, nearly a year after her last NWSL goal. San Diego’s loss means they’ll head to Providence Park next weekend to face the Portland Thorns.
Portland Thorns vs. Houston Dash (2-0 POR)
The Thorns quickly took charge in their match, with Deyna Castellanos scoring a mere three minutes in, notching her second goal of the season. Jessie Fleming provided additional security with another goal later in the first half, ensuring the Dash did not score. This victory secured third place for the Thorns, granting them a home quarterfinal tie against the San Diego Wave next weekend.
Racing Louisville vs. Bay FC (1-0 LOU)
Racing Louisville achieved their historic playoff berth, concluding the best season in the club’s history. Rookie Ella Hase scored her inaugural NWSL goal at a critical moment, breaking through the Bay defense in the second half after consistent pressure. This win placed Racing in seventh place, setting them up for a clash with the Spirit in Washington D.C. Head Coach Bev Yanez also made history, becoming the first individual to reach the playoffs as both a player and a manager in the NWSL.
Utah Royals vs. Washington Spirit (1-0 UTA)
With their playoff position secured and dealing with injuries, the Spirit could afford a loss to the Royals. Utah’s captain, Paige Monaghan, scored her fifth goal of the season, helping the Royals finish strong after a challenging start. In recent weeks, they’ve only lost three times since the summer break, setting themselves up for a better 2026. Meanwhile, the Spirit will advance to the quarterfinals to host Racing Louisville, promising an electrifying playoff atmosphere.
North Carolina Courage vs. Gotham FC (3-2 NCC)
North Carolina fought hard for a playoff position, but a Louisville victory meant their journey ended despite their impressive performance in heavy rain. The Courage started aggressively, with Meredith Speck opening the scoring in the 14th minute. Manaka Matsukubo added another goal shortly after, and an own goal strengthened their lead. Gotham was striving for a home game but will instead face the top-seeded Kansas City Current, struggling after a late comeback attempt fell short.
Chicago Stars vs. Angel City FC (2-1 CHI)
The Stars wrapped up their season with a 2-1 victory over Angel City. The LA team struck first with a goal from Miyabi Moriya, but the Stars equalized early in the second half through Jameese Joseph, and Ally Schlegel secured the decisive strike late in the match. The game also marked the final appearances for both Christen Press and Angel City captain Ali Riley. Since both teams were already out of playoff contention, the match served to uphold pride rather than influence overall standings.
Orlando Pride vs. Seattle Reign (1-1 ORL)
In a decisive matchup for home advantage, the match ended in a draw, but the Pride claimed fourth place in the standings. Carson Pickett scored in the 76th minute, converting a cross from Jacquie Ovalle. However, just three minutes later, Jordyn Bugg equalized for Seattle. The draw allowed the Pride to secure a home game against their recent rivals next weekend.
