Welcome to another edition of Goalside Gossip! This week had everything: epic battles, big wins, and record-breaking crowds. Bay FC triumphed in a nail-biting 3-2 clash with Houston Dash, while Portland Thorns crushed Angel City 3-0, sending shockwaves as we head into the playoffs. Over in the WSL, Chelsea unleashed a 5-0 rout on Everton, and Liverpool edged past Aston Villa 2-1. Back in the NWSL Attendance hit new highs, proving fans can’t get enough of the game—and we’re getting sentimental as we celebrate the retiring legends who’ve left an unforgettable mark on the pitch this season. Let’s dive into the highlights!

What's in store this week:

• 🫢 NWSL: Bay FC vs Houston Dash (3-2)

• 😮 NWSL: Portland Thorns vs Angel City FC (3-0)

• 👀 NWSL: Playoff Picture

• 🌟 WSL: Chelsea vs Everton (5-0)

• ✨ WSL: Liverpool vs Aston Villa (2-1)

• 🏆 Records: Attendance reaches record high

• 📽️ Nostalgia: Legends who retired this season

NWSL Final Matchday

Bay FC vs

Houston Dash (3-2)

Bay FC secured a historic playoff spot in their inaugural NWSL season with a thrilling 3-2 win over the Houston Dash, finishing seventh in the standings. After an own goal gave Bay an early lead, Houston’s Bárbara Olivieri equalized, but Racheal Kundananji put Bay ahead by halftime. A Houston goal from Avery Patterson tied it up again, but Kundananji clinched the victory with a late game-winner. Coach Albertin Montoya praised the team’s resilience and credited their ability to overcome challenges throughout the season.

With this victory, Bay FC set a record for most wins by an expansion team in their debut season, finishing with 11. Kundananji expressed pride in the team’s unity and determination, noting that their late-season push showcased their growth and ambition. Coach Montoya acknowledged the hard work it took to reach this point, emphasizing the team’s heart and energy, especially in challenging moments. Bay FC now prepares to face the Washington Spirit on Sunday, November 10, marking an exciting milestone for the club.

Portland Thorns vs

Angel City FC (3-0)

The Portland Thorns secured a playoff spot with a 3-0 victory over Angel City, highlighted by Christine Sinclair’s goal in her last regular-season home match at Providence Park. Sinclair, who is retiring this season, scored in the 16th minute, while Sophia Smith and Morgan Weaver added goals, sealing the win in front of 23,212 fans. Sinclair was subbed out in the 83rd minute to a standing ovation, and a post-game ceremony celebrated her incredible career, which includes three championships with the Thorns and a record-breaking 190 international goals.

With this win, Sinclair’s club career will continue in the playoffs. Known as the most prolific goal-scorer in international soccer history, Sinclair has left an indelible mark on the sport, both with her success at Portland and her iconic role in Canada’s gold medal win at the Tokyo Olympics.

Playoff Schedule/Picture

Friday, Nov. 8

• Orlando Pride vs. Chicago Red Stars, 8 p.m. EST (Prime)

Saturday, Nov. 9

• Kansas City Current vs. North Carolina Courage, 12 p.m. EST (CBS)

Sunday, Nov. 10

• Washington Spirit vs. Bay FC, 12:30 p.m. EST (ABC)

• NJ/NY Gotham FC vs. Portland Thorns FC 3 p.m. EST (ABC)

NWSL Final Regular Season Standings

WSL Matchday 6

Chelsea vs

Everton (5-0)

Chelsea Women dominated Everton with a 5-0 victory at Goodison Park, marking their fifth consecutive WSL win this season. First-half goals from Aggie Beever-Jones, Erin Cuthbert, and Guro Reiten gave Chelsea a commanding lead, with substitutes Wieke Kaptein and Ashley Lawrence adding two more late in the second half. Chelsea manager Sonia Bompastor became the third WSL coach to win her first five games, crediting her team’s efficiency and resilience in maintaining their perfect record. Everton, struggling with injuries and positional shifts, remain winless at the bottom of the table.

Bompastor praised Beever-Jones, the standout player, for her adaptability and confidence on the field. Beever-Jones, who started her career with Everton, expressed pride in scoring but kept her celebration modest out of respect for her former club. Everton manager Brian Sorensen acknowledged his team's fatigue and the challenges posed by their injury-depleted squad, emphasizing the need for a consistent game plan against top teams like Chelsea. As Chelsea climbs in the standings, Everton faces a crucial match next week against Crystal Palace to turn their season around.

Liverpool vs

Aston Villa (2-1)

Liverpool FC Women clinched their second win of the season with a 2-1 victory over Aston Villa, led by captain Taylor Hinds’ first-half brace. The Reds controlled much of the opening half, with Hinds striking first in the 26th minute following a well-crafted team play, and then doubling the lead in the 43rd with a confident finish. Liverpool’s early goals highlighted their attacking mindset, though the match was marked by several injuries and physical challenges. Villa struggled to create many chances before halftime, with Liverpool's midfield and defense keeping them in check.

Aston Villa came out strong in the second half, capitalizing on a Liverpool defensive lapse as Gabi Nunes headed in a cross to close the gap in the 49th minute. The goal gave Villa renewed energy, and they pressed forward as Liverpool’s struggle to keep possession led to scrappy play and forced substitutions. Despite the sustained pressure, Liverpool’s defense remained solid, with goalkeeper Rachael Laws making a crucial save in stoppage time to seal the win. Though Liverpool again showed resilience, concerns about their second-half drop-offs persist as they move into sixth place ahead of their next match against Chelsea.

WSL Standings

A Year of Broken Records

The NWSL set a new attendance milestone in 2024, crossing 2 million fans for the first time in its history. This achievement was highlighted by a sellout crowd at Portland’s Providence Park, where the Portland Thorns celebrated Christine Sinclair’s retirement after a storied career that included three NWSL titles. Check out what she plans to do after she retires!

This marks the third consecutive season the league has surpassed 1 million in attendance, breaking last year’s record of 1.42 million fans. The 2024 season saw 89 matches with over 10,000 fans, compared to 55 games in 2023, with an average attendance above 11,000.

The San Diego Wave led the league in attendance for the second year with 19,575 fans per game, while Angel City and Portland each drew over 18,000 per game. The season’s record numbers were also bolstered by two new franchises, Bay FC and Utah Royals, and an extra home game per team. Bay FC averaged 13,617 fans, while Utah saw 10,455.

The Chicago Red Stars set a single-game NWSL attendance record with 35,038 fans at Wrigley Field, though they also had the season’s lowest crowd with just 2,999 in May. This attendance growth coincides with a surge in NWSL team valuations and revenues, as total league revenue is projected to reach $215 million in 2024.

Saying Goodbye to Legends

The NWSL is bidding farewell to six impactful players as they retire after the 2024 season: Each of these athletes joined the league during its inaugural season in 2013 and has since left an indelible mark on the league and the sport. Known for their skills, resilience, and dedication, they helped the NWSL grow into a world-class, competitive league. Collectively, these players have inspired fans and athletes alike, setting records, winning championships, and establishing a legacy that elevated the game for the next generation.

Their achievements go beyond the field, as they championed for equality, player welfare, and the growth of the women’s game. Over the past decade, the NWSL’s total attendance has tripled, demonstrating the fans' commitment to watching the most talented and determined soccer players. The 2024 NWSL Championship will be held at CPKC Stadium, the first stadium built specifically for a professional women’s sports team—a fitting venue to close out a season that celebrates these trailblazers. As they hand off the torch, they leave a legacy of excellence, community, and progress, paving the way for future athletes to carry the league to even greater heights. We wanted to take a second and honor each one of these legends.

• Alex Morgan: A forward known for her speed and goal-scoring prowess, Morgan has been a key figure in the NWSL since its inception in 2013. She has played for teams such as the Portland Thorns, Orlando Pride, and San Diego Wave FC. Her accolades include NWSL Champion (2013), NWSL Shield (2023), NWSL Golden Boot (2022), two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup Winner (2015, 2019), Olympic Gold Medalist (2012), and multiple selections to the NWSL Best XI and FIFA FIFPro Women’s World XI. Check out Alex’s farewell speech.

• Christine Sinclair: A legendary forward for the Portland Thorns FC, Sinclair is the all-time leading goal scorer in women's international soccer. She has been instrumental in leading the Thorns to multiple championships and has been a consistent presence in the league. Her honors include NWSL Champion (2013, 2017, 2022), NWSL Shield (2016, 2021), Olympic Gold Medalist (2021), and 14-time Canadian Player of the Year. She even got a heartfelt message from Ryan Reynolds!

• Kelley O’Hara: Known for her versatility, O’Hara has played both as a defender and midfielder for teams like Sky Blue FC, Utah Royals, Washington Spirit, and NJ/NY Gotham FC. She has been a pivotal player in multiple championship victories and is celebrated for her leadership and tactical intelligence. Her achievements include NWSL Champion (2021, 2023), two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup Winner (2015, 2019), Olympic Gold Medalist (2012), and selection to the FIFA FIFPro Women’s World XI in 2019. Check out Kelley’s farewell speech.

• Merritt Mathias: A founding player of the NWSL, Mathias has appeared in nearly 200 games for teams including Kansas City, Seattle, North Carolina, and Angel City FC. She is known for her defensive prowess and leadership on and off the field. Her honors include NWSL Champion (2014, 2018, 2019), NWSL Shield (2015, 2018, 2019), and selection to the NWSL Second XI in 2018. Fun fact - Merritt is known on and off the pitch for her matchday fits.

• Desiree Scott: A cornerstone midfielder for the Kansas City Current, Scott has been a consistent figure in defensive midfield positions throughout her NWSL career. She is recognized for her remarkable work rate and consistency, with over 10,000 minutes played across 10 NWSL seasons. Her accolades include Olympic Gold Medalist (2021), two-time Olympic Bronze Medalist (2012, 2016), and recipient of the NWSL Ally Award in 2021. Check out Desiree’s emotional retirement announcement.

• Sinead Farrelly: Farrelly's career is marked by persistence and determination. After emerging in FC Kansas City’s midfield during the inaugural NWSL season, she played for the Portland Thorns and later Gotham FC. Despite a six-year absence from the game, she returned to contribute significantly to Gotham FC's championship run. Her honors include NWSL Champion (2023) and representing Ireland internationally with 8 caps. Check out Sinead’s send-off at Gotham.

These players have significantly contributed to the growth and success of the NWSL and women's soccer globally. Thank you for each and every one of your contributions!

Don’t be shy, tell your friends!