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Pride Edge Thorns on Stoppage-Time Own Goal to Shake Up NWSL Playoff Picture

The decisive set piece nudged Orlando into third in a tight playoff race.

Oct 10, 2025; Orlando, Florida, USA; Orlando Pride forward Ally Watt (11) takes a shot on goal against Portland Thorns FC goalkeeper MacKenzie Arnold (18) during the first half at Inter&Co Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Watters-Imagn Images
Sep 27, 2025; San Jose, California, USA; Bay FC forward Racheal Kundananji (9) dribbles toward Utah Royals defender Kaleigh Riehl (18) in the second half at Pay Park. Mandatory Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images
Oct 4, 2025; Portland, Oregon, USA; Portland Thorns FC defender Reyna Reyes (2) controls a pass during the first half against Bay FC midfielder Taylor Huff (7) at Providence Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images
Oct 10, 2025; Louisville, Kentucky, USA; Chicago Stars FC forward Nadia Gomes (right) maintains possession of the ball against Racing Louisville FC forward Janine Sonis (left) during the first half at Lynn Family Stadium. Mandatory Credit: EM Dash-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Marta returned as a second-half substitute for her first appearance since Sept. 19 and delivered the corner that forced Mallie McKenzie’s stoppage-time own goal.
  • Portland finished with 14 shots and four on target without scoring, while Orlando had two earlier efforts ruled offside.
  • Pride goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse recorded her seventh clean sheet with four saves as Rafaelle and Emily Sams anchored a disciplined back line.
  • The result moved Orlando to 10-8-6 (36 points) in third place and left Portland 9-8-7 (34) in fifth with two regular-season games left for the Thorns.
  • Orlando next faces Pachuca in a midweek W Champions Cup group finale, and Portland closes with Angel City on Oct. 19 before hosting Houston on Nov. 2.