The 2026 National Women’s Soccer League season wrapped up this weekend, delivering eight playoff berths and a chance for the league’s top clubs to chase the championship trophy. Gotham FC entered the postseason as the Shield winners, positioning themselves for a historic double.
Gotham FC – Shield Winners Face Seattle Reign
Gotham FC earned the league’s best regular‑season record and a record‑tying 14 clean sheets, thanks to a stout backline and Goalkeeper of the Year candidate Ann‑Katrin Berger. The team’s offense, however, produced only 39 goals, the seventh‑fewest in the league. If forward Jaedyn Shaw (11 goals) or midfielder Jaelin Howell, who was subbed early in the final match, miss time, Gotham’s attack could be further limited. Their quarterfinal opponent, Seattle Reign, will test Gotham’s defensive discipline.
San Diego Wave – Riding a Seven‑Game Unbeaten Streak
San Diego Wave heads into the playoffs on a seven‑game unbeaten run and is widely regarded as the league’s most balanced side. Captain Kennedy Wesley anchors a defense that is difficult to break down, while forward Trinity Byars, who scored 11 goals last season, now provides a reliable scoring threat. The Wave also boasts a youthful core featuring Melanie Barcenas, Mimi Van Zanten, Lia Godfrey, and Kimmi Ascanio, making them a popular pick to go deep.
Kansas City Current vs. Angel City FC – A Potential Classic
The Kansas City Current, on a five‑match winning streak, will meet Angel City FC, unbeaten in their last ten games. Both clubs lead the league with 54 goals scored and feature three players each who have eight or more goals. Kansas City holds the top expected‑goals differential, while Angel City sits third. The matchup could hinge on a tiebreaker: CPKC Stadium set a league‑record 32‑game regular‑season unbeaten streak but fell in last year’s quarterfinals to eventual 2025 champions Gotham.
Washington Spirit – Defending a Strong Backline
The Spirit’s defense, anchored by Tara Rudd, Esme Morgan, and Gabrielle Carle, ranks second in the league. Forward Trinity Rodman contributed 20 goal‑producing actions (12 goals, eight assists) this season. The team will be without midfielder Hal Hershfelt, who is on the season‑ending injury list, and must overcome a recent slump of five losses in six home games, though they have rebounded with two consecutive wins at Audi Field.
Portland Thorns – Sophisticated Attack Led by Sophia Wilson
Portland Thorns enter the playoffs with the league’s top remaining scorer, Sophia Wilson, who posted 15 goals and five assists. Pietra Tordin adds a versatile 17‑point season, playing across all four attacking positions. The Thorns hold a 5‑5‑4 record against other playoff teams but possess the lowest expected‑goals differential among the eight qualifiers, raising questions about whether their offense can compensate.
Utah Royals – First‑Time Playoff Appearance
The Utah Royals earned their inaugural playoff spot but are coming off a four‑match winless stretch. Attack leaders Cloé Lacasse (eight goals, ten assists) and Mina Tanka (nine goals, five assists) provide the primary scoring punch, though the team lacks a double‑digit goal scorer. Veteran defender Kate Del Fava, a three‑time Iron Woman, returns after a strong season and a debut with the USWNT. Utah’s record against playoff opponents stands at 3‑8‑3.
Seattle Reign – Veteran Presence, Offensive Challenges
Seattle Reign brings NWSL legend Jess Fishlock into the postseason, guaranteeing at least one more appearance. While the team’s defense, under coach Laura Harvey, remains solid, the attack ranks third‑fewest in the league and lowest among playoff teams. Forward Maddie Mercado will need to step up to provide scoring support.
All eight clubs will compete in single‑elimination quarterfinals, with the winners advancing to the semifinals and ultimately the championship match. Fans across the nation can look forward to high‑scoring, tightly contested games as the league’s top talent vies for the coveted title.
Original reporting: All Sports Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
