The NWSL season returns this weekend with an electrifying Decision Day. Seven games will unfold simultaneously, determining playoff fates and seeding. The stakes couldn’t be higher, with teams vying for postseason positions and a chance to secure home playoff games.
Week 26 Preview: Decision Day Unfolds with Exciting Anticipation
Every goal, save, and result will count. Here’s what fans can expect from each match:
Kansas City Current vs. San Diego Wave
Kick-off: 3 PM ET
How to watch: ESPN, ESPN+
- Current Position: Kansas City sits comfortably with 62 points.
- Key Players: Michelle Cooper and Izzy Rodriguez are in top form.
- Cascarino’s Performance: French phenom Delphine Cascarino is on fire, having scored in three consecutive matches.
- A draw or win may help Kansas City tie the longest home unbeaten streak in league history.
North Carolina Courage vs. Gotham FC
Kick-off: 5 PM ET
How to watch: NWSL+
- The Courage sits two points behind Racing Louisville and need a win to keep playoff hopes alive.
- Gotham FC seeks home-field advantage in the playoffs with a chance to secure it on this day.
- Watch for 21-year-old Manaka Matsukubo who made history with a hat trick in Week 25.
Racing Louisville vs. Bay FC
Kick-off: 5 PM ET
How to watch: NWSL+
- Racing aims for their first playoff spot in franchise history.
- Emma Sears leads the offense following a hat trick in the last match.
- Both teams feature standout goalkeepers in Jordyn Bloomer and Jordan Silkowitz.
Utah Royals vs. Washington Spirit
Kick-off: 5 PM ET
How to watch: NWSL+
- Washington Spirit, currently second in the standings, has secured a home quarterfinal match.
- Utah is playing their final game of the season with renewed determination.
- Key players for the Spirit include Gift Monday and Rosemonde Kouassi.
Portland Thorns vs. Houston Dash
Kick-off: 5 PM ET
How to watch: NWSL+
- The Thorns are in contention for a top-four seed and need a win or draw.
- Houston seeks to build momentum after a victory against league leaders Kansas City.
- Olivia Moultrie is expected to shine in front of an enthusiastic home crowd.
Orlando Pride vs. Seattle Reign
Kick-off: 5 PM ET
How to watch: NWSL+
- Both teams have secured playoff spots, but home-field advantage is up for grabs.
- Marta remains a pivotal player for Orlando, while Seattle relies on emerging talents.
- Determining playoff seeding could hinge on this match.
Chicago Stars vs. Angel City FC
Kick-off: 5 PM ET
How to watch: NWSL+
- This game marks the last for both teams this season, both eliminated from playoff contention.
- Chicago’s Ludmila aims to add to her goal tally, seeking to boost her Golden Boot chances.
- Expect a strong performance from Riley Tiernan, the standout rookie for Angel City.
As these teams prepare for the final push of the regular season, expect intense matchups and stories that could shape the postseason landscape. Get ready for a thrilling Decision Day in the NWSL!
