Thorns Rely on Tordin, Wilson in NWSL Quarterfinal Against Spirit

The Portland Thorns travel to Washington, D.C., on Sunday for a National Women's Soccer League quarterfinal against the Washington Spirit.

Kickoff is scheduled for 3 p.m. ET at Audi Field, with the game airing on ABC and streaming on Fubo. The Washington Spirit are listed as slight favorites at odds of -105, while a draw is +280 and Portland is +230.

Sophia Wilson returns to the field after missing the entire 2025 season. She finished the 2026 regular season with 15 goals, ranking third in the league behind Ashley Sanchez and Barbra Banda. Her return provides the Thorns with a potent finishing touch as they enter the postseason.

Portland lost forward Olivia Moultrie to injury after 16 games, creating a void in the attack. Midfielder Pietra Tordin, 22, filled that gap by recording eight goals and nine assists. Her nine assists tied for the third-most in the league. Tordin also earned a call-up to the United States women's national team, where she made her debut against Spain.

The connection between Tordin and Wilson has defined Portland's offensive output this year. Tordin recorded 51 key passes during the season, 20 of which were directed to Wilson. This partnership has made the Thorns a dangerous opponent, particularly when they exploit defensive gaps.

Washington Spirit coach Adrian Gonzalez faces high expectations, as the club is built to win the NWSL title. The Spirit has reached the league final in each of the past three seasons. If the team does not win the championship this year, the club may seek a new coach next season. The home crowd will add pressure to a squad that is expected to advance, but the Spirit can be vulnerable to defensive breakdowns.

The Thorns arrive in D.C. with the pressure off after rebuilding following Moultrie's injury. They enter the match as a team capable of a deep playoff run if the game breaks their way.