Spirit vs Stars: Who WIll Bring Home The 2021 NWSL Trophy?

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Since April of 2021, the top female soccer players from around the globe have been battling it out in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) in hopes of winning a National Championship. For the past 8 months, the 10 teams, based in different cities across America have put their blood, sweat and tears into this season and now only 2 teams are left.

Washington Spirit logo

The Washington Spirit came into the tournament as a 3 seed with a season record of 11-6-7. This past weekend they knocked out the 1 seed, The Portland Thorns, by a score of 2-0 . After a competitive semi-final game they came out on top and are on a high. They will be bringing their monumentum as well as The Washington “never say die” mentality into the finals. Key players to watch are U.S. Women’s National Team stars Kelly O’hara, Emily Sonnet, and Andi Sullivan. As well as 19-year old Trinity Rodman who is having a breakout season at forward. Forward Ashley Sanchez was voted player of the match for their semi-final game against The Thorns, and will play a key role in their attack this Saturday.

Chicago Red Stars logo

The Chicago Red Stars have a record of 11-5-8, almost identical to that of The Washington Spirit. They came into the playoffs as the 4 seed and have not failed to disappoint. They pulled off a close semi-final match vs the OL Reign by the score of 2-1. Knocking out the 2nd seed as well as USWNT stars like Megan Rapinoe and Rose Lavelle. The stars have a deep bench including 5 USWNT playmakers who will all play a key role in the finals. Defender Sarah Gorden was selected Best XI First Team for the 2021 NWSL season and will play an integral part in stopping the Spirit attack.

These teams have met three times this season and each game has been close. The first game, played back on June 19 ended in a 1-1 draw. They also met two other times during the summer and the Chicago Red Stars won both of those games by scores of 1-0 and 3-1. The last time the two sides played each other was August 1st and since then both clubs have made lots of changes.

Honestly this game is almost too close to call. However, I predict the score will be Chicago Red Stars: 2, Washington Spirit 1.

Either way it’s safe to say this game is going to be one you don’t want to miss. Get your popcorn out and be sure to tune into CBS on Saturday, November 20 at 12 pm ET for this year’s NWSL Championship match!