NWSL semifinals: Welcome abroad

November 15, 2021
The GIST: Yesterday’s epic fútbol Sunday brought two massive upsets. Next stop: the ’ship.
Sports NewsSoccer
NWSL semifinals: Welcome abroad
SOURCE: CHICAGO RED STARS/TWITTER

No. 2 OL Reign vs. No. 3 Washington Spirit: Both sides netted a goal within the first 12 minutes, but Spirit forward Ashley Sanchez defied the laws of physics to score the 68th minute game-winner and send Washington to their first title game since 2016.

No. 1 Portland Thorns vs. No. 4 Chicago Red Stars: Even without quarter-final hero Mal Pugh (due to COVID-19 protocols), the Red Stars still had enough offensive firepower to eliminate the top-seeded Thorns yesterday.

  • Red Stars forward Katie Johnson scored just minutes after subbing in for an injured Kealia Watt, and midfielder Sarah Woldmoe netted an insurance goal in the second half to secure the 2–0 win.

What’s next: Neither the Spirit nor the Red Stars have won an NWSL title, but that’ll change come Saturday at 12 p.m. ET. And you already know we’ll have a full preview closer to kickoff.