Get ready for a thrilling National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) showdown this Sunday, August 3rd, as the Washington Spirit host the Portland Thorns at Audi Field. Kicking off at 12:30 PM ET and airing live on ABC and ESPN+, this matchup promises high stakes, top talent, and a fierce battle shaping the playoff picture. Here’s why tuning in is an absolute must.
-
A Chance for Redemption at Home
After suffering a 2-0 defeat on the road earlier this season—breaking their impressive five-game winning streak—the Spirit are eager to turn the tables in front of their passionate home crowd. With Audi Field’s electric atmosphere fueling their charge, Washington aims to avenge that loss and strengthen their position as one of the league’s most potent attacking teams. Scoring 21 goals across 13 games, they have offensive firepower to thrill fans and keep the pressure on their playoff rivals. -
Star Power and International Pedigree
The Spirit’s roster boasts players making waves on the international stage this summer. Defender Esme Morgan helped England clinch the Euro 2025 title, Sofia Cantore impressed Italy en route to their first Euro semifinal in decades, and Leicy Santos is set to shine in Colombia’s Copa América Femenina final. Though these stars won’t feature in Sunday’s game, their presence highlights the caliber of talent within the squad. Additionally, long-awaited returnee Trinity Rodman is poised to inject energy once back from injury, making the Spirit an even more formidable side. -
Emerging Young Talent Stealing the Spotlight
This match showcases NWSL’s rising stars ready to define the league’s future. From the Spirit’s Croix Bethune—the reigning 2024 Rookie and Midfielder of the Year—to dynamic second-year pro Hal Hershfelt, youth are stepping up in big moments. Portland counters with exciting talent like June Rookie of the Month Pietra Tordin and sharpshooters Reilyn Turner and Jayden Perry. These fresh faces bring speed and creativity, promising an exhilarating encounter and potential game-changers on both sides. -
Explosive Offensive Firepower on Both Sides
Expect goals as Washington and Portland feature multiple attacking threats. The Spirit’s Gift Monday, Croix Bethune, and Brittany Ratcliffe have shown clutch performances, while Portland’s Turner, Perry, and Tordin have collectively netted 10 goals this season. Adding to Portland’s offensive threat are captain Sam Coffey and Olivia Moultrie, the league leader in chances created. With such depth up front, defenses will be tested hard, making for fast-paced, edge-of-your-seat action. -
Playoff Implications Ramp Up the Pressure
With the playoffs approaching, every single point matters, and this matchup is tightly contested. Washington holds the fourth spot with 23 points, closely trailed by Portland in fifth place with 22. A Thorns victory would vault them past the Spirit, strengthening their postseason chances, while a win for Washington could provide a crucial buffer as the race heats up. The top eight teams qualify, so this thriller impacts the playoff landscape dramatically.
Don’t miss this compelling—and potentially decisive—battle between two of the NWSL’s hottest teams. Tune in Sunday, August 3rd, at 12:30 PM ET on ABC and ESPN+ to witness an intense, high-stakes clash where redemption, rising stars, and playoff dreams collide. Whether you’re a longtime supporter or new to women’s soccer, this is one game you won’t want to miss.
