The day has come. Decision day is upon us, and the possibility of hosting a playoff match is at stake.
The odds are in Portland's favor
The Thorns have a record-winning history against the Dash, with 17 wins total in the regular season. What's more, Portland has won three straight matches against Houston by multiple goals.
That's a good stat, having in mind that the team has had a hard time scoring goals. Maybe that would help the team to win at least by a narrow margin.
Breaking records
Winning 10 matches per season has become the norm for the Thorns. This 2025 run is the ninth time Portland has won 10 matches and the 11th overall, establishing a league record.
Also, if they win against Houston, they will equal their second-most home points in a season won at home after getting 22 of their 37 points playing at Providence Park (25 in 2016, 31 in 2017).
Olivia Moultrie's pivotal role
The role the youngster is playing this year is undeniable. Her brace scored on October 19th made her the only fifth player in score four goals from outside the box in a single regular season in club's history and only the second to do so since 2017, being Sophia Wilson the first one to do so in 2023.
What's the scenario, and what are the tiebreakers
- Clinches No. 3 or No. 4 seed with a win AND Orlando draw OR San Diego draw/loss OR San Diego win but Portland finishes ahead on goal differential
- Clinches No. 4 seed with a draw AND Seattle loss AND San Diego loss AND Gotham draw/loss.
- Goal differential
- Total wins
- Goals scored
- Head-to-head record
- Head-to-head goals scored
- Fewest yellow/red cards
- Coin flip
Portland Thorns Availability Report
OUT: Julie Dufour (SEI – knee), Caiya Hanks (SEI – knee), Valerin Loboa (knee), Marie Müller (SEI – knee), Nicole Payne (SEI – knee), MA Vignola (ankle), Olivia Wade-Katoa (maternity leave), Morgan Weaver (SEI – knee), Sophia Wilson (maternity leave)
QUESTIONABLE: None
INTERNATIONAL DUTY: None
How to watch
With five games happening all at once, you will have to tune in to the match on NWSL+. Kickoff is scheduled for 2:15 PM PT.
FILM REVIEW & BREAKDOWN | Why M.A. Vignola is so important and crucial to the Portland Thorns moving forward #BAONPDX #NWSL She is OUT (ankle) today, but could return for the first round of the playoffs. ✍️: @melinae07.bsky.social stumptown-footy.ghost.io/why-m-a-vign...
— Stumptown Footy (@stumptownfooty.bsky.social) 2025-11-02T17:26:00.478Z
