In this week’s women’s soccer news, the Washington Spirit won the 2025 NWSL Challenge Cup; Yuki Nagasato announced her retirement ; Sabrina Ionescu joins the Bay FC ownership; and more!
High of the Week
The Washington Spirit are the 2025 NWSL Challenge Cup Champions. It was a good game that came down to a penalty kick shootout, but the Spirit won over the Orlando Pride.
Orlando got on the board first with a beautifully taken shot from Rafaelle. The Pride earned a free kick just outside the box. Marta took the kick but it bounced off the Spirit wall directly to Rafaelle who sent the ball flying into the side of the net. In the 72nd minute, the Spirit leveled the game thanks to a goal by Leicy Santos off a beautifully taken free kick. With it level after 90 minutes the match went straight to penalty kicks to decide the winner. The Pride missed two penalties with one off-target and one saved by Aubrey Kingsbury. Washington made all of their kicks with Tara McKeown hammering home the winner.
It is the Spirit’s first Challenge Cup trophy. The Challenge Cup began in 2020 and five different teams have won it; Houston Dash, North Carolina Courage twice, Portland Thorns, San Diego Wave, and now the Washington Spirit.
Confetti showers and trophy lifts 🙌 🎊
