The 2025 NWSL playoffs delivered drama and upsets as NJ/NY Gotham FC stunned top-seeded Kansas City Current in a thrilling extra-time victory, while Washington Spirit and Orlando Pride also advanced to the semi-finals.
Gotham FC, the lowest seed in the postseason, overcame a 1-1 deadlock to defeat the league-leading Current 2-1. Jaedyn Shaw gave Gotham the lead in the 68th minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse, but Ellie Wheeler scored a stoppage-time equalizer for Kansas City, forcing extra time. In the 121st minute, Katie Stengel converted a long free-kick flick-on from Shaw, hitting the crossbar and netting the decisive goal. The victory ends Kansas City’s 18-match home unbeaten streak and sets up a semi-final clash with fourth-seeded Orlando Pride.
The Portland Thorns narrowly advanced past the San Diego Wave in a defensive battle. Reilyn Turner scored in the fourth minute of extra time, heading in a precise cross from Olivia Moultrie to secure a 1-0 win. Thorns goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold made several crucial saves, including a remarkable stop with her face in the 106th minute. The victory maintains Portland’s bid for a fourth NWSL title, adding to their previous championships in 2013, 2017, and 2022.
Washington Spirit overcame Racing Louisville in a tense penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw. Gift Monday opened the scoring in the 73rd minute, but Kayla Fischer equalized in stoppage time. Spirit goalkeeper Aubrey Kingsbury saved two penalties, helping Washington win the shootout 3-1. The second-seeded Spirit now face the winner of the Portland Thorns vs San Diego Wave match in the semi-finals.
Defending champions Orlando Pride recorded a 2-0 victory over Seattle Reign. Haley McCutcheon put Orlando ahead in the 21st minute, and a late penalty converted by Luana sealed the win. Luana’s goal marks her return after fully recovering from Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Pride’s semi-final opponent will be Gotham FC.
With four teams advancing, the NWSL semi-finals promise high-stakes matches as Gotham FC aims to continue their giant-killing run, Portland seeks another title, and Spirit and Pride look to secure spots in the championship final.
