A mixture of acquainted faces and newcomers make up the newest batch of playoff groups within the NWSL, the final groups standing formally focusing on a spot within the NWSL Championship on Nov. 22.
5 groups from final season’s playoffs are again for one more stab on the league’s high prize, together with every of the NWSL’s final 4 champions – the Orlando Pleasure, Gotham FC, the Portland Thorns and the Washington Spirit. Becoming a member of the record of top-tier contenders are the Kansas Metropolis Present, who had been the runaway winners of the Protect in 2025 and ended the common season with a 21 level benefit over second place, arguably making them the favorites to win the NWSL Championship for the primary time in membership historical past.
The San Diego Wave and 2023 Championship finalists Seattle Reign are again after a one yr absence from the postseason, whereas Racing Louisville are within the playoffs for the primary time in membership historical past after reserving the ultimate berth with a win on Resolution Day.
All paths finally result in the NWSL Championship on Nov. 22, which can happen at San Jose’s PayPal Park. The match kicks off at 8 p.m. and shall be broadcast on CBS and Paramount+.
2025 NWSL Playoffs bracket
2025 NWSL Playoffs schedule
All instances U.S./Jap
Quarterfinals
Friday, Nov. 7
Orlando Pleasure 1, Seattle Reign 0
Saturday, Nov. 8
Washington Spirit 1, Racing Louisville 1 (Spirit win on PKs, 3-1)
Sunday, Nov. 9
Gotham FC 2, Kansas Metropolis Present 1
Portland Thorns vs. San Diego Wave, 3 p.m. (ABC)
Semifinals
Matches to happen through the weekend of Nov. 15 and 16
Kansas Metropolis Present/Gotham FC vs. Orlando Pleasure/Seattle Reign, time TBA
Washington Spirit/Racing Louisville vs. Portland Thorns/San Diego Wave, time TBA
Ultimate
Saturday, Nov. 22
Groups TBD, 8 p.m. (CBS. Paramount+)
