Portland Thorns: Valerin Loboa and Laila Harbert share their excitement after making NWSL debuts + M.A Vignola's first media availability

The one positive from the Portland Thorns' road loss at NJ/NY Gotham FC was undoubtedly the debuts of young phenoms, Valerin Loboa and Laila Harbert.

In the 61st minute, Harbert subbed on for former Portland Thorn and newly traded, Hina Sugita...

In the 84th minute, Loboa replaced Deyna Castellanos.

Even in limited minutes, both 18-year-olds brought a spark to the team, showed their skill, and had positive moments.

After the match, Loboa and Harbert shared thoughts on making their debuts for the club.

"It meant a lot," said Loboa. "I fulfilled a dream I've been working toward for years. Stepping onto the field in this jersey fills me with pride and motivates me even more to continue growing and helping the team in whatever they need."

"It was a great feeling to finally step on the pitch for the Thorns," said Harbert. 'It was a tough game to come into, but I’m grateful for the minutes and hope to build on them moving forward. The environment created here allowed me to feel trusted by the team straight away which is making it a lot easier to settle too."

With four games remaining, both will have more opportunities to help the team with their playoff push and aspirations.

M.A. Vignola's first media availability with Portland Thorns

Vignola spoke to me about being traded so late in the season, trying to move and settle in to a new city, conversations with front office and coaches, her preferred position, the impact of Christine Sinclair and Ali Riley, joining forces with Reyna Reyes, incoming debut at Providence Park, and love for drawing.

On September 30, 2025 the Portland Thorns traded Hina Sugita to Angel City FC for Vignola and $600,000 in intraleague transfer funds.

She is available for selection for tomorrow's match versus Bay FC.

Updates from Rob Gale

Rob Gale speaks to the media about Christine Sinclair Day, Hina Sugita trade for M.A. Vignola, the health and availability of the team, young phenoms in Valerin Loboa and Laila Harbert, and more.

Availability and Health - "We're in way better shape than we were last week, delighted to say... Availability is as close as it can be, although there are still some concerns at this point in the season. M.A. is available, ready and willing."

Hina Sugita trade for M.A. Vignola - "Universally loved. Zero maintenance for me as a coach."

"It's an emotional week, there's no getting away from that... Did everything they could to keep her here longer."

"You won't hear anybody in this organization ever say a bad word about Hina Sugita and all I can say is she sent me a lovely message when she left and left me a note. We wish her all the best moving forward."