NWSL Week 23: Playoff Race Heats Up
As the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) enters Week 23, the playoff race intensifies. Two teams have already secured their spots, leaving six positions still up for grabs. With crucial matchups between teams in close standings, the stakes are high this weekend.
NWSL Week 23 Match Preview
Upcoming Matches
- Friday, October 3: Houston Dash vs. Orlando Pride at 8 PM ET (Prime Video)
- Saturday, October 4:
- North Carolina Courage vs. Racing Louisville at 7:30 PM ET (ION)
- Portland Thorns vs. Bay FC at 10 PM ET (ION)
- Sunday, October 5:
- Washington Spirit vs. San Diego Wave at 1 PM ET (ESPN & ESPN+)
- Gotham FC vs. Seattle Reign at 4 PM ET (Paramount+ & NWSL+)
- Chicago Stars vs. Utah Royals at 4 PM ET (Paramount+ & NWSL+)
- Monday, October 6: Angel City FC vs. Kansas City Current at 10:30 PM ET (CBSSN)
Match Highlights
The Houston Dash will host the Orlando Pride in a critical match. The Dash lost 4-0 to the Washington Spirit last week but remain in contention just three points away from a playoff spot. The Pride sit mid-table but are looking to maintain their position.
North Carolina Courage, ranked ninth, will clash with eighth-placed Racing Louisville. This matchup is vital, as both teams are close in points. Racing Louisville achieved a club record of eight wins this season and is determined to secure their playoff position.
The Portland Thorns, currently sixth, face Bay FC, who must win to avoid elimination from playoff contention. The Thorns will also honor retired star Christine Sinclair during this encounter.
Key Performers to Watch
- Trinity Rodman and Croix Bethune of the Washington Spirit are crucial as they aim for home-field advantage.
- Gotham FC’s goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger could make a difference, having conceded only 18 goals this season.
- Angel City FC will rely on Hina Sugita’s experience as they push for a playoff berth against the currently dominant Kansas City Current.
This weekend of NWSL matchups promises excitement as teams battle for playoff positions. Fans can tune in to see how the standings unfold with each game crucial for determining the playoff landscape.
