Washington Spirit Advances to NWSL Championship on the Strength of Team Depth

Time seemed to slow for Washington Spirit forward Rosemonde Kouassi as she pursued the ball down the sideline, 27 minutes into her team’s 2-0 NWSL semifinal victory over the Portland Thorns at Audi Field.

Kouassi soared to the sideline, keeping the ball in play and leaving Thorns defender Kaitlyn Torpey behind. In a swift 16 seconds, the ball transitioned from Thorns midfielder Olivia Moultrie’s foot during a corner kick to the back of the opposite net, where Gift Monday effortlessly tapped in a pass from Kouassi.

This goal underscored the Spirit’s dominant first half, securing them a second consecutive appearance in the NWSL Championship. It reflected the Spirit’s recent achievements, driven by unsung heroes determined to outwork their opponents.

Kouassi and Monday have emerged as key players for a Spirit team navigating injuries this season, often overshadowed by the star power of forward Trinity Rodman. The football world had been keenly observing Rodman’s recovery from a sprained MCL, speculating whether she would feature again in the playoffs after lucrative offers abroad loomed for the impending free agent.

On Saturday morning, the possibility of Rodman’s home appearance for the last time seemed likely. She made a brief appearance in the 90th minute and nearly scored in stoppage time before a sold-out crowd of over 19,000. A goal would have been poetic, recalling her stoppage-time winner against the Thorns in August after a prior injury layoff, but it wasn’t needed. This Spirit team thrives on collective effort, not solely relying on Rodman.

Kouassi orchestrated play from the outset, just as she had in previous matches this season. It took only four minutes for her to connect with Monday again, though the latter was narrowly ruled offside. The warning shot ignited Washington’s relentless pursuit, causing Portland— historically a playoff powerhouse—to seem overwhelmed.

Eventually, Kouassi and Monday’s collaboration bore fruit, mirroring their prior week’s synergy when Monday returned from her father’s funeral in Nigeria, emotionally charged.

In the 83rd minute, Spirit midfielder Croix Bethune sealed the victory with an insurance goal, capitalizing on an ill-conceived back pass from Thorns defender Sam Hiatt. She deftly maneuvered around goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold before nearly walking the ball into the net.

While the Spirit’s dominance was evident, one could argue that Portland’s mistakes significantly influenced the semifinal outcome. Nonetheless, the Thorns’ resilience should not overshadow the Spirit’s achievement; they have rightfully earned their second straight championship match in a league renowned for its competitiveness.

Head Coach Adrián González emphasized the importance of mental and psychological preparation, asserting that such aspects could outweigh tactical considerations. Having recently navigated two consecutive penalty shootouts at home, the Spirit’s perseverance is a testament to their preparation.

Unlike previous matches, extra time was unnecessary on Saturday. The Spirit’s maturity and experience were evident from the beginning, with Kouassi showcasing her prowess on the right flank and Kate Wiesner, stepping in for the injured Gabby Carle, creating challenges on the left. Center back Tara McKeown’s return from injury bolstered a defensive line that effectively restricted the Thorns to their own half.

This season has tested the Spirit’s depth and quality through injuries to Rodman and other key players absent for maternity leave, compounded by a dramatic midseason coaching change. Yet, Washington has consistently garnered points and momentum, despite the Kansas City Current’s record-breaking season.

As the playoffs continue, the Spirit stand strong, buoyed by the contributions of lesser-known players. The lessons learned from last year’s disappointments are now paying off.

It feels like ages since the Spirit claimed the NWSL Challenge Cup, reviving their spirit in a rematch against the Orlando Pride. Now, Washington is poised for true retribution on November 22 in San Jose, California, at the NWSL Championship.