Barbra Banda's decisive goal helped propel the Orlando Pride to their first-ever National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) championship, as they edged the Washington Spirit 1-0 at CPKC Stadium on Saturday night. The match, filled with tension and excitement, showcased the pride and skill of women’s soccer.
Orlando's victory not only marked their inaugural championship title, but it also capped off a stellar season for the Pride, who had previously clinched the NWSL Shield with an impressive record of 18 wins, 6 losses, and 2 draws. This championship is particularly significant for the club, as they have experienced ups and downs since their formation.
Banda, who was instrumental throughout the postseason, scored the winning goal just before halftime, taking the team one step closer to their historic win. The goal came at the 37th minute when Banda turned Spirit defender Esme Morgan to slot the ball past goalkeeper Aubrey Kingsbury. Leading up to the strike, there was concern about the validity of the goal after Var (Video Assistant Referee) reviewed the play, focusing on whether Angelina had fouled Spirit player Leicy Santos. After the review, the goal stood, bringing elation to the Pride and despair to the Spirit.
For Washington, the championship match was somewhat of a heartbreak as they failed to convert their opportunities on the pitch. Throughout the playoffs, the Spirit had shown resilience, often rallying late when facing adversity, but this time, the magic eluded them. They entered this match with determination, knowing the stakes were high; it was their opportunity to showcase their growth and make history themselves.
The emotional high of winning the championship was particularly poignant for veteran players like Brazilian superstar Marta, who has been the heartbeat of the team. With this title, she not only earns another trophy to add to her illustrious career but sets the record for the most championships won by any player in the league. Marta expressed immense pride not just for herself but for the entire Pride organization, emphasizing the collective effort: "Winning tonight meant everything. We showed what we are capable of when we work together. This victory is for everyone who believes in us.”
The match turned out to be even more than just another game for Orlando; it was also about camaraderie and team spirit. Coach Seb Hines praised his squad’s relentless effort, noting the team’s evolution throughout the season. "It’s wonderful to see our hard work pay off," said Hines. "The girls believed they could achieve this, and tonight, they did it!"
On the other side, the Spirit’s quest for their second NWSL championship fell short, but they left the pitch knowing they have the potential to return and contend for more titles. Washington had shown promising gameplay throughout the season, with young talents stepping up to the forefront. Coach Mark Parsons acknowledged their efforts, stating, "It’s important to reflect on how far we’ve come as a team. We may not have won, but we gave it our all, and I couldn’t ask for anything more from my players."
The fan atmosphere at CPKC Stadium was electric, with supporters from both sides filling the stands, waving banners, and chanting throughout the match. D.C. fans, unable to travel due to distance, gathered at popular local spots, including metrobar, celebrating their team together, united by the love for their players, sharing hopes, and holding on tightly to their dreams.
For many fans, it remains to be seen what next year holds, but with the foundation built this season, the anticipation is thick. "We will be back next year, win or lose!" declared one enthusiastic supporter under the beams of city lights. This unwavering spirit from fans hints at what the future holds for both the Pride and the Spirit as they look to adapt and grow from this experience.
The 2024 NWSL Championship not only symbolized the culmination of hard work and determination from the Orlando Pride but also served as yet another chapter written for women’s sports, highlighting the passion and energy burning brightly within women’s soccer.”
