#portland-thorns

#portland-thorns

Bringing this new version of myself back to Portland is so special to me because Portland is where I started my professional career and it's where I've really grown up in a lot of ways, Wilson said in a statement released by the team. I'm excited for the city. I love living there. I love the people there. I'm excited to get back with everyone and play in Providence Park, to play in front of the Riveters. There's no place like it.

The four most recent NWSL champions are also the 2025 semifinalists. If that sounds predictable, it isn't -- at least, not entirely. NJ/NY Gotham FC (the 2023 champions) arrive in Sunday's semifinal against the reigning champion Orlando Pride (3 p.m. ET, ABC / ESPN Deportes / ESPN+) as the No. 8 seed that just pulled off the biggest upset in NWSL playoff history.

The Portland Thorns will retire the No. 12 jersey of longtime forward Christine Sinclair in a ceremony at Providence Park on Oct. 4. Sinclair will also be the first player inducted into the team's Hall of Fame. Sinclair retired in 2024 as the world's leading international goal scorer with 190 goals for Canada. She was one of the first players in Thorns history, joining the team ahead of the inaugural NWSL season in 2013.

Despite the early injury to defender Jordan Brewster, Bay FC's depth shone through, showcasing the team's resilience and ability to maintain defensive performance throughout the match.