Orlando Pride clinched the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) Shield on Sunday after claiming a 2-0 victory over second-place Washington Spirit at Inter & Co Stadium.
A rainy evening in Florida did nothing to dampen the spirits of the Pride, as a penalty goal from Marta and an own-goal from Tara McKeown were enough to claim the premier title after a dominant season.
Marta claims her moment
Following a tight contest that went goalless into the half-time break, a challenge from McKeown on Barbra Banda inside of the area saw Orlando awarded a penalty in the 54th minute of play. None other than Marta stepped up to the spot, as the Brazilian legend made no mistake in converting to give her team the advantage with 35 left to play.
Marta’s eighth goal of the 2024 NWSL season couldn’t have come at a better time, as Orlando Pride found themselves within touching distance of their first Shield victory in club history. Silverware in a stunning season
The game was put to bed just 15 minutes later as the Pride doubled their advantage through Adriana. The Brazilian attacker stormed forward in possession as she fired her strike toward the goal in attempt to give Orlando a second. Adriana’s shot took a strong deflection from McKeown,…
