# NWSL playoff predictions: who can spoil Gotham’s bid for the double?

> Gotham’s NWSL title bid faces dark horses and injuries in playoff race.
- Title: NWSL playoff predictions: who can spoil Gotham’s bid for the…
- Summary: Gotham’s NWSL title bid faces dark horses and injuries in playoff race. Angel City, with strong form and new signings, could spoil Gotham’s chance for the…
- Keywords: nwsl, gotham, angel city, trinity rodman, croix bethune, san diego wave, playoffs, shields, golden boot, championship, the Guardian
- Source: the Guardian — https://theguardian.com/football/2026/nov/06/nwsl-playoff-predictions-picks
- Published: 2026-11-06T11:00:51+00:00
- Read time: 2 min
- Topics: nwsl, gotham, angel city, trinity rodman, croix bethune, san diego wave, playoffs, shields, golden boot, championship, sports
## NWSL playoff predictions
The NWSL playoff predictions focus on who can spoil Gotham’s bid for the double.
## Key players in playoff race
Rose Lavelle, Croix Bethune and Trinity Rodman are among the stars seeking to lead their team to an NWSL title.
## Regular season highlights
The regular season was defined by compelling storylines and close competition for the Shield.
## League fanbase efforts
The league is working to gauge the heart of its fanbase with innovations like the Rodman Rule.
## Dark horses in playoffs
Angel City, who haven’t lost since August, are the consensus dark-horse pick for playoff success.
## Gotham’s playoff challenge
Gotham’s bid for the double faces risks from injuries to key players like Jaelin Howell.
## Trinity Rodman’s return
Trinity Rodman enters the NWSL postseason healthy after battling injuries in 2024 and 2025.
## Kansas City’s strength
Kansas City has a strong attack led by Croix Bethune, who has returned from injury.
## San Diego Wave’s potential
San Diego Wave are one of the top contenders for the NWSL title with a balanced lineup.
## Playoff bracket dynamics
The playoff bracket features Angel City facing Kansas City, with Gotham likely to meet the winner in the semi-finals.
## Washington Spirit’s challenge
Washington Spirit need to quickly solidify a midfield after Hal Hershfelt’s ACL injury.
## Denver Summit’s playoff position
Denver Summit tied 2018 North Carolina with the third-most goals (53) in a regular season.
## North Carolina Courage’s playoff struggle
North Carolina Courage lacked an attacking structure after Ashley Sanchez’s numbers dropped in the final month.
## Playoff predictions
Angel City are the top contenders to reach the NWSL championship game in DC.
## Gotham’s playoff threat
Gotham are postseason monsters but face challenges without key players like Jaelin Howell.
## Key takeaway

Angel City, with strong form and new signings, could spoil Gotham’s chance for the NWSL double.