The NWSL’s playoff picture is almost complete after a dramatic Week 26, in which three more teams clinched a playoff spot and only one place was left for Decision Day. Denver Summit’s 6-1 demolition of Racing Louisville headlined a weekend that also saw the Utah Royals reach the playoffs for the first time in franchise history.
Denver make their statement
Denver’s six-goal rout was the performance of the round, transforming their playoff chances in a single afternoon. At the other end of the table, the results left Seattle Reign controlling their own destiny: win on Decision Day and the final berth is theirs. Gotham FC’s 2-1 win away at Orlando Pride kept them in position to claim the Shield, sitting three points ahead of San Diego Wave, who were held 2-2 by Boston Legacy. We track the women’s game across the season in our sports coverage.
Firsts and streaks
Utah’s goalless draw with Seattle was enough to make history, sealing the Royals’ first ever postseason appearance. Angel City, meanwhile, beat Bay FC 2-0 to extend the league’s longest current unbeaten run, while Kansas City Current’s 2-1 win over Washington Spirit and Portland’s 1-0 victory against North Carolina filled out a weekend of tight, consequential matches. As the Week 26 results roundup details, three clubs are still fighting for the single remaining place.
The final playoff spot and Decision Day drama
The NWSL’s final-day format, with all matches kicking off together, is designed for exactly this scenario: one place, three contenders, and Seattle holding the advantage. Gotham’s Shield race with San Diego adds a second storyline at the top of the table.
However it resolves, Week 26 showed the league at its competitive best, with belters from outside the box, a six-goal statement win and a franchise-first celebration. Decision Day now has everything it needs to finish the regular season in style.
