The Portland Thorns have already clinched a playoff spot and will likely finish in the sixth or seventh position after the conclusion of the regular season.
On NWSL Decision Day, they head on the road to take on Houston Dash. In the only meeting of the season, both sides earned a point in a 1-1 draw.
Here's everything you need to know ahead of the season finale:
What to Expect
In the first matchup at Providence Park, Houston came out on the front-foot and made Portland pay the price with an early goal by Kat Rader.
Once the visitors went up a goal, the Thorns struggled to break down their low block and create quality chances. The few opportunities they had? Goalkeeper Jane Campbell denied it.
Marie Müller would eventually equalize in the 85th minute, but that performance was part of a rough patch at home and overall.
This game will come down to PTFC's ability to defend the counter, but also break down a low block. They know exactly how the Dash will be set up and exactly what to expect.
Expect the possession to be quite even, but the question is what can Robert Vilahamn's side do with it when they have the ball?
Although the chances of securing the fourth seed is 'very unlikely' the Portland Thorns will go out playing for the chance to make it happen. Heading into the playoffs with momentum will be crucial.
Key Statistics
- The two sides have been awarded 12 penalty kicks combined. Which side will struggle defending in transition or make a costly mistake?
- The Houston Dash have generated the 15th most xG and conceded the 14th most in defense.
- Goalkeeper Jane Campbell leads the NWSL in goals prevented and is second in save percentage and saves per match.
Players to watch
Kat Rader: With 10 goals on the season, the attacker is hoping to tie or break the rookie goalscoring record set by Diana Ordóñez of 11 in 2022
Leah Klenke: The rookie defender is coming off her first goal and continues to become a dynamo in central defense. She is also able to play anywhere on the backline.
Kiki Van Zanten: After a breakout season with seven goal contributions, the forward signed a long-term extension with the Houston Dash. KVZ has steadily regained her form after coming back from injury.
Sophia Wilson: Returning from a two-match red card suspension, the forward will look to find her finishing form ahead of the quarterfinals.
Carolyn Calzada: Going from limited opportunities to one of the first-choice starters has been a lot to ask for from a rookie, but the performances have been there more often than not. Although moved her to fullback ahead of schedule, it's been a move that has largely worked.
Jessie Fleming: Could she the Iron season and play every single minute in 2026? She is fourth in chances created and highly ranked for a number of defensive metrics as well. It's been a career season for the midfielder.
Media Availability with Robert Vilahamn
Portland Thorns head coach Robert Vilahamn previews the regular season finale at Houston Dash.
He also speaks to Carolyn Calzada's development in her rookie season, reintegrating Isa Obaze back into the starting XI and her importance in attack, backline starters, NWSL playoffs, and more more.
Availability Report
PORTLAND THORNS FC
OUT: Bella Bixby (Knee - SEI), Olivia Moultrie (Knee - SEI)
QUESTIONABLE: None
INTERNATIONAL DUTY: None
HOUSTON DASH
OUT: Malia Berkely (Maternity leave), Evelina Duljan (Excused absence), Makenzy Robbe (Knee - SEI), Amanda West (Knee - SEI)
QUESTIONABLE: None
INTERNATIONAL DUTY: None
