Orlando Pride capped off a stellar season with a 1-0 win against second-placed Washington Spirit. The match at the CPKC Stadium in Kansas City saw the Pride win their first NWSL Championship since their inception in 2016.
The sole Barbra Banda goal meant Orlando became the first team since 2019 to win both the NWSL Shield and Championship in the same season.
The best NWSL side in history
The Pride, previously viewed as underachievers, shattered multiple records en route to their double triumph. Seb Hines’ side broke records when they saw themselves amass 60 points from 26 games. Orlando also broke the record for the most wins in a NWSL season with 18.
The majority of plaudits will deservedly be aimed at Banda due to her 17 goals across the regular season and playoffs. However, goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse should not go under the radar. Her 13 clean sheets were the most on record in the NWSL, contributing significantly to Orlando’s 24-game unbeaten run. This campaign saw the Pride become invincible at home.
Embed from Getty ImagesHines, appointed head coach in 2022, has orchestrated this transformation with a progressive and dynamic style of play. His tactics allow for fluid attacks, high pressing, and swift transitions. Hines himself broke records this season, as he became the first Black manager to ever win an NWSL trophy.
Marta adds to her legacy
Embed from Getty ImagesMarta continued to add to her legendary status, playing a pivotal role in Orlando Pride’s historic double. At 38, the Brazilian icon demonstrated that age is no barrier to brilliance, contributing 11 goals.
Her vision, technical mastery, and leadership powered the team to their victories. Marta’s ability to dictate the tempo and inspire others has firmly cemented her status as the Pride’s heart and soul. With the Shield and Championship now part of her illustrious résumé, Marta’s legacy as one of the greatest to ever grace the game remains unassailable.