A summer Sunday showdown between two of the league’s best clubs this season? Count us in.
This Sunday, the Washington Spirit welcome the Portland Thorns to Audi Field for their first meeting in D.C. this season, and while Portland won the earlier clash in June, both teams return from the summer break with new momentum., With the playoffs around the corner, a lot is on the line.
Here's why you should tune in this Sunday, Aug. 3rd at 12:30 PM ET on ABC & ESPN.
READ: How to Watch the NWSL on ABC
1. Redemption Run at Home
Washington are eyeing payback after their 2-0 loss in Portland earlier this season, one that drew over 21,000 Portland fans and ended their five-game road win streak. Since then, they’ve regrouped and surged back into the playoff picture. With 21 goals in 13 matches, the Spirit are one of the league’s most dangerous attacking teams and will be looking to protect home turf at Audi Field, one of the loudest venues in the league.
2. Spirited Summer
Spirit players have been making headlines all summer. Defender Esme Morgan helped lead England to Euro 2025 glory; new signing Sofia Cantore made an instant impact with three assists for Italy as they reached their first Euro semifinal since 1997; and Leicy Santos is set to represent Colombia in the Copa América Femenina final on Saturday against Brazil. While none of them will suit up on Sunday, there’s no better time to start watching this Spirit team, especially with Trinity Rodman soon making her return from a spell of injury.
3. The Future of the NWSL is Now
Sunday’s match will showcase some of the best young talent in the NWSL. June Rookie of the Month, Pietra Tordin, scored the second goal in their last meeting and has emerged as a game-changer off the bench and a rookie to watch. Alongside her are fellow goalscorers Reilyn Turner, who is in her second year as a pro but is really hitting her stride this season, and penalty kick maestro Jayden Perry. On the Spirit’s side, they’ll likely field Croix Bethune, the 2024 NWSL Rookie AND Midfielder of the Year, and fan favorite, second-year header connoisseur Hal Hershfelt. Will the youth be the difference-makers this Sunday?
4. Offensive Firepower from All Angles
Both teams roster players that can score. For the Spirit, Gift Monday, Croix Bethune, and Brittany Ratcliffe have all stepped up in big moments. For the Thorns, Turner, Perry, and Tordin have carried the scoring load, combining for 10 goals, but don’t forget captain Sam Coffey and the young Olivia Moultrie, who leads the league in chances created. Whatever the final score is on Sunday, one thing is true: the defense is going to have to put in the work to come away with points for their side.
5. Playoff Race Pressure
Just a single point separates these two sides in the standings—Washington sits fourth on 23 points, while Portland trails in fifth with 22. With the top eight teams earning playoff spots, every result matters. A Thorns win would leapfrog them into fourth and strengthen their postseason grip, while a Spirit victory would give them breathing room. And with Kansas City leading the table at 33 points, the Shield race is still wide open.
Don’t miss one of the spiciest matchups of Week 14 as the Washington Spirit takes on the Portland Thorns this Sunday, August 3rd at 12:30 PM ET on ABC and ESPN+.