The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) is making its much-anticipated return with an exciting lineup of games this Sunday, marking the end of a lengthy summer hiatus.
The highlight of the weekend is a thrilling matchup at Audi Field in Washington, D.C., where the Washington Spirit (7 wins, 2 draws, 4 losses) will host the Portland Thorns (6 wins, 4 draws, 3 losses). Fans are eagerly awaiting the potential return of U.S. women’s national team standout Trinity Rodman, who has been sidelined for over two months due to a back injury. Reports indicate that the game is poised to be a sell-out, promising an electric atmosphere.
The Thorns are riding a wave of momentum, having concluded the first half of the season on a positive note with a recent 2-0 victory against the Spirit on June 15. Midfielder Sam Coffey is shining in what has been a breakout year for her, and Portland has successfully addressed earlier defensive challenges, losing only once in their last eight games.
In another match, the reigning champion Orlando Pride (8 wins, 1 draw, 4 losses) will face the struggling Utah Royals (1 win, 2 draws, 10 losses). The Pride, however, will be without key players Marta and Angelina, who are competing in the Copa América Femenina final for Brazil. Utah faces additional hurdles as they reportedly trade U.S. attacker Ally Sentnor to the Kansas City Current, complicating their pursuit of a much-needed victory in Florida.
Fans can get ready for an action-packed weekend in the NWSL as the first day back following the summer break is filled with high stakes and exciting potential.
Washington Spirit vs. Portland Thorns:
– Time: 12:30 p.m. ET, Sunday, Aug. 3
– Location: Audi Field, Washington, D.C.
– TV: ABC
– Stream: ESPN+, Fubo
Orlando Pride vs. Utah Royals:
– Time: 6 p.m. ET, Sunday, Aug. 3
– Location: Inter&Co Stadium, Orlando, Florida
– Stream: Paramount+, NWSL+
As the NWSL season resumes, teams are eager to demonstrate their readiness and compete fiercely for positioning, making every match count as the season progresses. Fans can look forward to thrilling performances and possible upsets as the league resumes its momentum.