NWSL Playoffs: Predicting High-Stakes Action

As the National Women’s Soccer League playoffs begin, excitement is reaching its peak with every team vying for a chance at lifting the championship trophy. This season marks a milestone with the largest playoff field in NWSL history, and while that expansion brings in new contenders, it also introduces a level of unpredictability. From dominant regular-season performances to teams on a late surge, the postseason promises to deliver drama. 

NJ/NY Gotham FC will square off against Portland Thorns. Gotham enters the playoffs as the defending champions and one of the most well-rounded teams in the league. Their strength lies in their defensive stability and the depth they have throughout their squad. With players like Esther González and the dynamic Ella Stevens contributing consistently, Gotham has shown that they can win in a variety of ways. Portland, though, has a game-changer in Sophia Smith. When she’s at her best, Smith can be a one-woman wrecking crew capable of deciding the outcome of any match.

However, Portland has been inconsistent this season, with erratic performances throughout the year, which makes them a bit of a wild card. The Thorns will rely on their attacking firepower, but if their defense is exposed, Gotham will pounce. The unpredictability of any match means that it could easily go either way and using sites for both teams to score predictions and tips could provide vital info fans need to place their bets. These sites offer predictions that are 100% free.  

Gotham’s ability to execute in tight situations will be tested by Portland’s attacking threats, and teams will be looking to seize the initiative.

The game to watch is Orlando Pride versus Chicago Red Stars. Orlando enters the postseason as the No. 1 seed, having been the league’s best team throughout the regular season. Their defense has been a standout, which will be a crucial factor in the playoffs, especially when facing a Chicago team that has struggled recently. The Red Stars have had an up-and-down campaign and are certainly the underdogs in this matchup, but they have a history of pulling off surprising results, including a shocking semifinal victory in 2021.

Their hopes rest largely on the shoulders of Mallory Swanson, whose ability to produce moments of brilliance could give Chicago a chance. However, while Orlando’s defense has been solid, they have shown vulnerability at times, especially if their top striker, Barbra Banda , does not regain her form. The Pride will likely dominate possession, but Chicago will make the most of any counter-attacks. Given Chicago’s recent struggles and Orlando’s solid defensive record, the likelihood of both teams scoring seems slim, but there’s always a chance that Swanson’s quality and Naeher’s shot-stopping could keep the Red Stars in it.

Meanwhile, Washington Spirit will take on Bay FC in another intriguing clash. Washington, with their relentless attacking style, has proven to be a dangerous team in transition. Ashley Hatch and Trinity Rodman are key players for the Spirit, and their ability to break down opponents will be critical in this matchup. Bay FC, on the other hand, has improved dramatically throughout the season, especially after making tactical changes mid-year to bolster their defense. The Spirit’s attacking prowess, though, will test Bay FC’s defensive structure.

While Washington has been hit with injuries—most notably Andi Sullivan’s ACL tear —their core players are fit and ready for this high-stakes encounter. Bay FC’s best shot at success will be through a disciplined defensive display and making the most of set-pieces and transitions. Given the attacking talent on both sides, there is a strong chance that both teams will find the back of the net. Washington’s attacking depth paired with Bay’s renewed confidence suggests this could be a high-scoring encounter.