NWSL Playoff Drama: Gotham FC Surprises Kansas City, Spirit Advances, and More!
By Jeff Kassouf | November 10, 2025, 08:39 AM ET
The chaos of the NWSL quarterfinals has come to an end. Did you manage to catch your breath? Over the course of less than 48 hours, the league once known for unpredictability delivered an unforgettable spectacle that included two late equalizers, three matches that went into extra time, one further decided by penalties, and even an upset of a team often considered the greatest in league history.
What’s the current landscape? The top seed, Kansas City Current, who set NWSL records with 65 points, 21 victories, and a mere 13 goals allowed, will not proceed. The final four teams left in contention are the last four champions: Orlando Pride, NJ/NY Gotham FC, Portland Thorns, and Washington Spirit.
NWSL SEMIFINALS:
– (2) Washington Spirit vs. (5) Portland Thorns, Nov. 15, noon ET
– (4) Orlando Pride vs. (8) Gotham FC, Nov. 16, 3 p.m. ET
Here’s a recap of the thrilling matches.
Favorites Fall
(1) Kansas City Current 1, (8) NJ/NY Gotham FC 2 (After Extra Time)
The Kansas City Current, a powerhouse in the NWSL, found themselves heavily impacted by the absences of their MVP and two-time Golden Boot recipient Temwa Chawinga and rising star Michelle Cooper. Their head coach Vlatko Andonovski noted that with critical players absent, particularly Chawinga, the team struggled significantly, especially in key moments.
In a pivotal instance during the first half, a play that might have typically favored the Current turned into a lost opportunity due to ineffective finishing. Debinha skillfully maneuvered past two defenders and created a chance for Nichelle Prince, whose shot was within reach of goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger, but ultimately produced no result.
Gotham FC, organized defensively by veteran Emily Sonnett, maintained control and limited Kansas City’s ability to capitalize on counter-attacks. Meanwhile, the Current’s previously formidable defense made uncharacteristic errors, including allowing Jaedyn Shaw to score the opening goal in the 68th minute.
Despite a late equalizer from Ellie Wheeler that forced overtime, Katie Stengel sealed Gotham’s victory with a decisive goal in the 121st minute. Gotham’s triumph came despite missing leading scorer Esther González due to injury.
This outcome won’t be regarded merely as an upset; Kansas City’s performance is deemed a disappointment given their season-long excellence.
Defending Champions Shine
(4) Orlando Pride 2, (5) Seattle Reign FC 0
During the final moments of the game, while other players might opt to waste time, Marta, the legendary six-time world player of the year, showcased her iconic flair. With a 1-0 lead against the Seattle Reign, instead of retreating to the corner, she charged toward goal and forced a foul in the box, resulting in a penalty which Luana converted, ensuring Orlando’s progression to the next round.
Marta’s actions reaffirmed her exceptional talent and leadership, which have been vital for the Pride, who look to recapture the magic of their previous championship-winning season. The squad’s depth and contributions from players like Haley McCutcheon, who netted the first goal and is known for her clinical finishing in critical moments, have also been pivotal.
The Pride’s playoff performance has rekindled memories of their undefeated streak last season and they seem to have regained their winning form, even in the absence of Barbra Banda, who is sidelined with injury.
Spirit Survive and Advance
(2) Washington Spirit 1, (7) Racing Louisville FC 1
(Spirit advances 3-1 in penalty shootout)
In a match that required nerves of steel, Washington Spirit goalkeeper Aubrey Kingsbury once again proved invaluable, saving two penalties in the shootout after a tough match against Racing Louisville, who scored late to equalize and force extra time.
With star forward Trinity Rodman unavailable due to injury, the Spirit displayed resilience. Although they conceded a last-minute equalizer from Kayla Fischer, they held their composure in the penalty shootout, ultimately sealing the victory thanks to Kingsbury’s heroics.
Despite injuries impacting the squad’s performance, Washington’s veteran experience came to the forefront, highlighting their determination in high-pressure situations.
The Thorns Keep Charging
(3) Portland Thorns FC 1, (6) San Diego Wave FC 0 (After Extra Time)
The Portland Thorns stood firmly as they secured their quarterfinal victory, a testament to their mental fortitude. After a challenging start to the season, they have adapted well, suffering only a handful of losses and managing a strong finish.
In finding success, Sam Coffey, Olivia Moultrie, and Jessie Fleming have been instrumental in the midfield. They orchestrated the play leading to the decisive goal, demonstrating the Thorns’ evolving synergy and resilience.
Despite losing key players early in the season, the Thorns’ ability to rebound and maintain focus has kept them in contention for another title, with their rich history as a foundation for success.
As they prepare for the semifinals, they look poised to capitalize on any opportunity, especially given the current uncertainties surrounding other teams.
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