Orlando Pride Crowned NWSL Champions in Historic 1-0 Victory Over Washington Spirit
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Orlando Pride have done it! In a nail-biting showdown at CPKC Stadium, the Pride clinched their first-ever NWSL championship with a 1-0 victory over the Washington Spirit on Saturday night. The hero of the night? None other than Barbra Banda, whose first-half goal not only sealed the win but also etched her name into the league’s record books.
With this victory, the Pride became the first team since 2019 to win both the NWSL Shield (awarded to the best regular-season team) and the NWSL championship in the same season. It’s a feat that has only been accomplished three times in league history. For Orlando, this was more than just a title—it was a statement.
Marta’s Long-Awaited Moment
For six-time world player of the year Marta, this championship was a dream come true. The 38-year-old Brazilian legend, who has been with the Pride since 2017, finally got her hands on the NWSL trophy. To make the moment even sweeter, her mother was in attendance to watch her play in the United States for the very first time.
“This means so much,” Marta told CBS Sports after the match. “With these players, it’s something really special that I never had before in any other club, so I’m so happy. I’ve asked myself why I still play for Orlando. After eight years, I’m the only player in this club since 2017, and I have so many questions about it. Now I have the answer—it’s because it was time to be champion.”
Banda’s Record-Breaking Performance
The game’s lone goal came in the 37th minute, courtesy of Banda. The forward latched onto a perfectly weighted pass from midfielder Angelina, made a sharp cut inside to shake off defender Esme Morgan, and unleashed a left-footed strike that beat Spirit goalkeeper Aubrey Kingsbury. The goal was Banda’s fourth of the playoffs, setting a new single postseason NWSL record. She also became the first player in league history to score in all three playoff games in a single postseason.
However, the goal didn’t come without controversy. Spirit head coach Jonatan Giráldez was seen arguing with the fourth official, claiming that the play stemmed from a strong challenge by Angelina on Spirit midfielder Leicy Santos. Despite the protests, the goal stood, and Banda’s brilliance proved to be the difference-maker.
A Physical Battle
The first half was a gritty affair, with both teams leaving it all on the field. The physicality was evident, as the two sides combined for 14 fouls and three yellow cards before halftime. Spirit forward Rosemonde Kouassi was booked in the 28th minute for dragging down Banda during a counterattack. Just three minutes later, Pride defender Kerry Abello received a yellow card for tripping Spirit star Trinity Rodman. Washington midfielder Hal Hershfelt also found herself in the referee’s book after a hard challenge just before the break.
Second-Half Drama
Washington came out swinging in the second half, nearly equalizing just two minutes in. Kouassi connected with a cross from Rodman at the 6-yard box, but Pride goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse made a stunning reaction save to preserve the lead. Orlando had a chance to double their advantage near the hour mark when Banda broke free on a counterattack. Marta sprinted to join her, but Banda opted not to pass, and the opportunity went begging.
As the clock ticked down, the Spirit threw everything they had at Orlando in search of an equalizer. But the Pride’s defense held firm, continuing their remarkable record of not losing when leading at halftime in 15 previous occasions this season.
History Made
With the victory, Orlando became the fourth team in NWSL history to win the championship in their first appearance in the final. For Washington, it was a disappointing end to a season that saw them reach their third final. The Spirit previously won the title in 2021 but couldn’t replicate that success this time around.
Key Takeaways
- Barbra Banda set a new NWSL postseason record with four goals and became the first player to score in all three playoff games in a single postseason.
- Marta, a six-time world player of the year, finally won her first NWSL championship at the age of 38.
- Orlando Pride became the first team since 2019 to win both the NWSL Shield and the championship in the same season.
For the Orlando Pride, this championship is more than just a trophy—it’s a testament to resilience, teamwork, and the belief that anything is possible. As Marta said, “It was time to be champion.” And now, they are.
Originally Written by: Jeff Carlisle
