Spirit Set to Secure Playoff Spot in Exciting Homecoming Match Preview
Washington Spirit Poised for Playoff Berth Against Houston Dash
Crucial Showdown at Audi Field for Washington Spirit
In an eagerly anticipated match, the Washington Spirit is set to return to Audi Field with an opportunity to secure a playoff berth against the Houston Dash on Sunday, September 28. The game is scheduled to begin at 1 p.m. EDT and will be broadcast locally on Monumental Sports Network, with streaming available on Paramount+ and NWSL+.
Washington Spirit’s Recent Performance Highlights
The Spirit is riding high following a road draw with Angel City FC, maintaining second place in the NWSL standings with just five matches left in the season. A win this Sunday would make Washington the second team in the league to clinch a playoff spot.
Star player Trinity Rodman continues her impressive form, having scored in three consecutive matches. Midfielder Croix Bethune, last season’s Midfielder of the Year, contributed an equalizer in their previous match against Los Angeles, assisted by Leicy Santos, who was named the NWSL Player of the Week.
The squad will also see the return of Hal Hershfelt, who is back after serving a suspension. The Spirit has a stellar record of 6-1-6 in matches featuring Hershfelt this season, amassing 24 out of a possible 39 points.
Unbeaten Streak and Strong History Against Houston Dash
Washington enters Sunday’s matchup on a nine-match unbeaten streak in regular season play, comprising three wins and six draws. The Spirit’s last defeat was over 15 weeks ago, and they have outscored opponents 12-8 during this period.
The Spirit boasts a three-match win streak against the Houston Dash and has remained unbeaten in their last five encounters. Since 2024, Washington has dominated with an 8-2 scoreline against Houston, including two away victories. A win on Sunday would secure a playoff spot for the second consecutive year with a home fixture against the Dash.
Post-Sunday, the Spirit will face Gotham FC in the Concacaf W Champions Cup group stage midweek, followed by a home game against San Diego Wave FC on October 5. Tickets for these matches are available via El-Balad.
Houston Dash’s Ambitious Playoff Push
Houston Dash arrives at Audi Field in robust form, having secured a 4-1-3 record since regular season play resumed in August. This resurgence has placed them just below the playoff line in ninth place.
The Dash’s offense benefits from balanced scoring, with seven players netting multiple goals this season. Yazmeen Ryan has particularly stood out, contributing to the Houston attack in four of their last five matches with three goals and an assist.
Defensively, the Dash has achieved five clean sheets, with goalkeepers Jane Campbell and Abby Smith playing crucial roles. Houston ranks third in saves this season, totaling 82. Importantly, the Dash has displayed resilience, boasting the most wins in the league when conceding the first goal.
Following their game against the Spirit, Houston will host the Orlando Pride on October 3, aiming to strengthen their playoff chances.
All-Time Series: Washington Spirit vs. Houston Dash
The Washington Spirit holds a commanding all-time regular season record against the Houston Dash, with a tally of 12 wins, 8 losses, and 7 draws, alongside a +5 goal differential (35-30). As they embark on Sundays’ match, the Spirit is on a formidable three-match winning streak against Houston, just shy of their peak four-match winning streak from the 2015 and 2016 seasons.
