Washington Spirit Advance to NWSL Championship After Dramatic Comeback and Penalty Triumph

Washington D.C. — In a semifinal match packed with tension and late drama, the Washington Spirit booked their place in the NWSL Championship after a remarkable comeback against defending champion NJ/NY Gotham FC at a sold-out Audi Field. The Spirit's grit, composure, and youthful energy proved decisive, setting up a third appearance in the league's title game.

The Spirit, who captured their first championship in 2021 after falling short in 2016, will return to the grand stage on Saturday, November 23. They await the winner of Sunday’s Orlando Pride–Kansas City Current semifinal and will kick off the championship match at 8 p.m. EST at Kansas City’s CPKC Stadium.

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Match Recap: Late Equalizer Sparks Spirit Comeback

Washington entered stoppage time trailing 1-0, with Esther González’s 56th-minute header off a pinpoint cross from Yazmeen Ryan standing as the difference. Gotham FC, buoyed by an outstanding nine-save performance from goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger, looked poised to close out the win.

However, Spirit rookie Hal Hershfelt had other plans. In the dying moments, Hershfelt rose above the Gotham defense to head home a perfectly delivered free kick from fellow rookie Makenna Morris, leveling the score and igniting the home crowd. The goal showcased Washington's depth and the poise of its emerging stars under immense pressure.

Extra time offered no breakthrough, though Gotham’s situation worsened when defender Bruninha was sent off after receiving a second yellow card, forcing them to play with ten players.

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Penalty Perfection: Kingsbury Leads the Way

The match ultimately came down to a penalty shootout—and it was here that Washington's nerve and preparation shone brightest.

Goalkeeper Aubrey Kingsbury, a calming and commanding presence, saved all three of Gotham’s penalty attempts. Meanwhile, Ashley Hatch, Lena Silano, and Tara McKeown each converted their spot-kicks with clinical precision, securing a 3-0 shootout victory after just three rounds.

Kingsbury’s flawless performance was emblematic of Washington’s character on the night: composed, determined, and ruthless when it mattered most.

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Key Players: Rising Stars and Veteran Leadership

• Hal Hershfelt (Midfielder): Delivered the dramatic stoppage-time equalizer, continuing her impressive rookie campaign.
• Makenna Morris (Defender): Provided the crucial assist under pressure, highlighting her growing impact on set pieces.
• Aubrey Kingsbury (Goalkeeper): Stopped all three Gotham penalties and marshaled her defense expertly during regular and extra time.
• Ashley Hatch, Lena Silano, Tara McKeown (Forwards): Coolly converted penalties, demonstrating the Spirit’s depth and confidence in high-pressure moments.

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Looking Ahead: A Legacy-Building Opportunity

The Spirit’s journey to the final is not just a comeback story—it's a reflection of the organization's commitment to building a team capable of sustainable success. By blending the energy of rookies like Hershfelt and Morris with the leadership of seasoned players like Kingsbury and Hatch, Washington has cultivated a team identity rooted in resilience and ambition.

Facing either an Orlando Pride squad fueled by star power or a red-hot Kansas City Current side on home turf, the Spirit will need to summon the same tactical sharpness and mental toughness that carried them through Saturday's showdown.

Regardless of the opponent, Washington will step onto the pitch at CPKC Stadium with a chance to add a second star to their crest—and with the momentum of a team that believes in its destiny.