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2mo ago

Washington Spirit Clinch 2025 NWSLChallenge Cup in Penalty Shootout

The Spirit secured their second-ever trophy with a dramatic win over defending champions Orlando Pride after a 1-1 draw in regulation.

Orlando player Marta kicks at goal during the NWSL Challenge Cup 2025 soccer match of Orlando Pride vs. Washington Spirit at Inter&Co Stadium in Orlando on Friday, March 7, 2025. Washington won the match 1-1 in penalty kicks. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)

Overview

  • The Washington Spirit defeated the Orlando Pride 4-2 in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw in the 2025 NWSL Challenge Cup final.
  • Orlando’s Rafaelle scored the opening goal in the first half, marking her return after a long injury absence in 2024.
  • Washington’s Leicy Santos equalized with a stunning free kick in the 72nd minute, forcing the match into penalties.
  • Goalkeeper Aubrey Kingsbury made a crucial save in the shootout, setting up Tara McKeown to convert the decisive penalty for the Spirit.
  • The victory serves as redemption for the Spirit, who lost to the Pride in last year’s championship game and finished as runners-up in the 2024 standings.