Decision Day Delivers Drama as NWSL Teams Punch Playoff Tickets

The 2025 NWSL regular season concluded with a thrilling Decision Day that set the stage for an exciting playoff weekend. From Kansas City’s dominance to Racing Louisville’s historic first berth, key performances reshaped the postseason bracket and highlighted the league’s depth of talent. Below, we break down the standout moments, our official Team of the Week, and what lies ahead as clubs prepare to battle for a championship.

Key Highlights from Decision Day

Racing Louisville Clinches First-Ever Playoff Spot

Racing Louisville edged out Bay FC with a 1–0 victory, securing the club’s inaugural postseason berth. Rookie forward Ella Hase delivered the decisive goal, lifting Louisville into seventh place and setting up a quarterfinal clash with second-seeded Washington Spirit on November 8.

Kansas City Current Cruises In

First-place Kansas City Current maintained their form to close the regular season, with Brazilian international Debinha converting a spectacular free kick. The Shield winners will face eighth-seeded Gotham FC at home, carrying momentum into the quarterfinals.

Other Decision Day Outcomes

• Orlando Pride and Seattle Reign kick off the playoff weekend on Friday.
• Portland Thorns, seeded third, host San Diego Wave in a marquee matchup.
• Remaining teams jockeyed for seeding to secure home advantage in the early rounds.

Attacking Third’s Team of the Week Selections

Our panel of analysts identified the top XI performers based on Decision Day contributions, rewarding consistency, leadership, and match-winning impact.

Goalkeeper: Mandy McGlynn (Utah Royals)

McGlynn anchored a resilient Utah Royals defense, recording a clean sheet against a top-seeded opponent. Her save-count and command of the penalty area provided a solid platform for her club’s second-half surge.

Defender: Carson Pickett (Orlando Pride)

Versatile fullback Pickett came off the bench to score a crucial goal that secured Orlando’s home quarterfinal status. Her defensive discipline and attacking instincts make her a key playoff asset.

Defender: Arin Wright (Racing Louisville FC)

Captain Wright led by example, topping clearances and shots while marshalling a clean sheet. Her leadership was instrumental in Louisville’s late-season turnaround and historic playoff qualification.

Defender: Jordyn Bugg (Seattle Reign FC)

At just 19, Bugg showcased maturity beyond her years, equalizing Orlando’s lead with a powerful strike from distance. Her aerial prowess and composure under pressure underscore her emergence as a defensive star.

Defender: Janine Sonis (Racing Louisville FC)

Originally a forward, Sonis’s transition to the backline has paid dividends. She led Louisville in chances created and touches, orchestrating attacks from deep and cementing her role in their playoff berth.

Midfielder: Manaka Matsukubo (North Carolina Courage)

Although the Courage narrowly missed the playoffs, Matsukubo capped her breakout season with a sublime long-range chip. Seven goals in the latter half of the campaign emphasize her importance in future title bids.

Midfielder: Jessie Fleming (Portland Thorns FC)

Fleming dictated tempo on Decision Day, delivering both a goal and an assist. The Canadian playmaker’s vision and shooting range provide Portland with a potent threat as they embark on their playoff journey.

Midfielder: Claudia Zornoza (Utah Royals)

Greeting retirement after a 17-year career, Zornoza led Utah in recoveries and creative chances. Her experience and tenacity leave an enduring mark on the league and her teammates.

Forward: Debinha (Kansas City Current)

Debinha’s trademark free kick salvaged a late point for Kansas City, underscoring her status as one of the NWSL’s most decisive attackers. The Brazilian’s clutch performances elevate the Current as title favorites.

Forward: Jordan Huitema (Seattle Reign FC)

Huitema’s aerial skill and off-the-ball movement troubled Orlando’s defense all match. Her return to form adds firepower to a Reign side eager to make a deep playoff run.

Forward: Ella Hase (Racing Louisville FC)

In her first professional season, Hase delivered the game-winner that sealed Louisville’s playoff spot. The rookie’s composure in a high-pressure moment signals a bright future.

Coach of the Week and Honorary Captain

Head Coach: Bev Yanez (Racing Louisville FC)

Yanez guided Louisville through growing pains to a historic postseason appearance. Her tactical adjustments—switching Sonis to defense and fostering team identity—cement her as the first former NWSL player to lead a club into the playoffs.

Honorary Captain: Decision Day

After a one-year hiatus, Decision Day returned with high stakes, drama, and memorable individual moments. Its reappearance reminded fans why the final weekend of the regular season remains a pinnacle of NWSL excitement.

Looking Ahead: NWSL Playoff Weekend Coverage

Playoff action kicks off Friday with Portland Thorns vs. San Diego Wave, followed by Orlando Pride vs. Seattle Reign. Quarterfinals continue Sunday as Kansas City hosts Gotham FC. Fans can catch live streams on CBS, CBS Sports Network, Paramount+ and the CBS Sports Golazo Network. Stay tuned for bracket updates and expert analysis as teams vie for a spot in the NWSL Championship on November 22.