Orlando Pride Wins First NWSL Championship

The Orlando Pride claimed their first National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) championship with a 1-0 victory over the Washington Spirit, making them the first team since 2019 to win both the Shield and the title in the same year. Barbra Banda scored the decisive goal, becoming the first player in NWSL history to score in each playoff round. Despite the Spirit's dominance in possession and shots, the Pride's strong defensive strategy, including Defender of the Year Emily Sams, was key to their victory. Marta, a legendary figure in women's soccer, finally won the championship at age 38, marking a significant milestone in her illustrious career. The Pride's unbeaten streak of 23 games, a league record, was a testament to their exceptional season, while Washington's streak of comeback wins when trailing at halftime was broken during this match.