In a rematch of the 2025 NWSL Semifinals, the Portland Thorns are returning to Audi Field looking to spring an upset over the Washington Spirit. The two sides are set to face off in the last NWSL quarterfinal on Sunday at 12 p.m. PT (ABC/ESPN App).
With the stunning upset of No. 7 Utah Royals over No. 2 San Diego Wave 1-0, the winner of this match will host the semifinal.
Who will move on and take on Utah at home?
Media Availability with Robert Vilahamn and Reilyn Turner
Head to Head
- March 13: Thorns earn 1-0 victory in the season opener at Audi Field
- September 6: Spirit getting their revenge in a 1-2 comeback at Providence Park
Washington Spirit
- xG generated: Eighth-most at 47.3 | Goals scored: Eighth-most with 43
- xG conceded: Second-fewest at 34.8 | Goals conceded: Second-fewest with 28
Portland Thorns
- xG generated: Sixth-most at 48.7 | Goals scored: Fifth-most with 50
- xG conceded: Fifth-most at 47.9 | Goals conceded: Ninth-most with 41
What to Expect
Both sides are drastically different from their two matchups as Portland has gotten healthier and unfortunately for Washington, the opposite.
However, they will both still play their style of football on Sunday.
At 55.8% possession, the Spirit are third in the league while Portland is 14th at 44.8%.
It's classic possession vs counterattacking football. The home side will look to dominate the ball and put pressure on the opposing backline. On the other side, the visitors will look to pounce on mistakes or force them with their press.
Players to Watch
Tara Rudd (Washington Spirit, CB) - The reigning Defender of the Year is a force in central defense alongside Esme Morgan. Can they hold off the firepower of PTFC, especially on the counter?
Leicy Santos (Washington Spirit, MF) - The midfielder was on pace for career-season and MOTY honors before an injuries set her back months. Now, she is back and healthy. Will she be able to play if the match goes into extra time?
Trinity Rodman (Washington Spirit, FW) - Who else? The forward had a career-high 20 goal contributions this season with 12 goals and eight assists. Can the PTFC fullbacks slow her down?
Carolyn Calzada (Portland Thorns, DF) - The task of defending Rodman will likely be up to the defender, but it'll require help from the double pivot and the winger. Is the rookie ready for this?
Caiya Hanks (Portland Thorns, FW) - The forward will be taking one of two options for Washington Spirit at right-back. Either way, it'll be the most important matchup for her to win on a consistent basis. If that happens, it'll be a good night for the Rose City.
Reilyn Turner (Portland Thorns, FW) - In 2024 at Gotham FC, she scored the equalizer. In 2025, she scored the game-winner vs San Diego Wave. The forward is a big-time performer in the postseason and will look to score for a third consecutive playoffs.
