The Orlando Pride made history this past Sunday, clinching their first National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) Shield with a monumental 2-0 victory over the Washington Spirit at home. This monumental win not only marked an impressive milestone for the team but also illustrated the tumultuous journey they have endured over the years. As they celebrated their triumph, it was clear that this achievement was more than just a title; it was a testament to resilience and progress in the face of adversity.
In front of a spirited home crowd at Inter & Co Stadium, the Pride showcased their skill and determination. The pivotal moment came in the 56th minute when team captain Marta confidently converted a penalty, solidifying her role as a leader on and off the field. Just 17 minutes later, Orlando midfielder Adriana saw her shot redirected into the goal by a Spirit defender, resulting in an own goal that further cemented the Pride’s dominance during the match. With this victory, Orlando has maintained an unbeaten streak through 23 games—an unprecedented feat in NWSL history.
It’s important to note that Washington Spirit played without several key players, including their co-leading scorers, Trinity Rodman and Ouleye Sarr, both essential cogs in the Spirit’s attacking lineup. Defender Casey Krueger and midfielder Leicy Santos were also sidelined due to injuries, significantly diminishing the Spirit’s chances against a resurgent Pride squad. Despite these disadvantages, the Spirit remained competitive, but Orlando’s relentless effort ultimately ensured their success.
Kylie Strom, an Orlando defender, expressed the emotional weight of this victory: „We’ve gone through so much, this team, and to have Marta score the goal — I mean, you can’t write it. We’re so, so over the moon.“ Her sentiment emphasizes the journey that has led the Pride to this remarkable achievement, showcasing not just the glory of victory but the fading shadows of past disappointments.
The NWSL Shield is a significant honor, and Orlando is just the fifth franchise to receive it since the league’s inception. Previous winners included renowned teams like the Portland Thorns and the Seattle Reign, establishing a legacy that seemed distant for the Pride. Historically, the Pride had faced challenges that cast a long shadow over their ambitions. Over seven seasons, they had only made the playoffs once, in 2017, finishing in the bottom three in five out of those seven years. Their record-setting struggle in 2019, where they conceded 53 goals, epitomized their past futility.
The team’s absence from the 2020 NWSL Challenge Cup, due to uncertainties surrounding COVID-19, further defined a period of instability. Yet, this year stands apart. The resilience demonstrated throughout the season echoes Strom’s thoughts: „I think that’s what makes this season even more special, is to kind of know what this club and this organization has been through.“
With three games left in the regular season, the Pride have set their sights on playoff preparations, which will be held for the first time in front of their home crowd in early November. As the eighth-seeded team will arrive for the quarterfinals, the anticipation builds. The significance of closing out the season strong can lead to a well-deserved celebration of hard work and dedication.
As the NWSL expands its playoff format to include eight teams, Orlando’s journey serves as an inspiring narrative for other clubs in the league. The road from struggles to triumph is fraught with challenges, but the Pride’s success story invigorates the belief that sustained effort and a collective vision can lead to dramatic turnarounds.
The Orlando Pride have not just claimed a trophy but have reshaped their narrative. This achievement galvanizes not only the players and coaches but the entire fanbase, reinstating hope and excitement within their community. As they embark on the next chapter of their journey, the Pride are not merely aiming for victory; they aim to create a legacy of excellence that will resonate within the NWSL for years to come.
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