Marta and the Orlando Pride claimed their first National Women’s Soccer League championship with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over the Washington Spirit on Saturday night, thanks to a decisive goal from Barbra Banda in the 37th minute.
In a moment that showcased her skill, Banda expertly maneuvered into the right side of the penalty area, sidestepping a defender before firing a low shot past the goalkeeper with her left foot. This remarkable achievement made her the first player in NWSL history to score in every playoff round.
Before the goal, a potential foul by Orlando’s Angelina was reviewed by VAR, which ultimately confirmed that the play was legitimate, allowing the Pride to maintain their momentum.
This victory marked a significant milestone for Brazilian superstar Marta, as it secured her first NWSL title after years of striving for championship glory.
The top-seeded Orlando Pride (21-6-2) showcased their dominance throughout the season, remaining unbeaten in their first 23 matches—a league record. They advanced to the final after defeating the Kansas City Current in the semifinals, celebrating their triumph at CPKC Stadium, their home ground.
Remarkably, Orlando is the first team since 2019 to win both the Shield and the championship in the same season, solidifying their place in NWSL history.
On the other hand, the Washington Spirit, who had previously triumphed in their last five playoff matches when trailing at halftime, saw their streak come to an end with this defeat.
