From the Guardian · · 2m
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.
In brief
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 NWSL double. Originally reported by the Guardian.
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.
The takeaway
Angel City, with strong form and new signings, could spoil Gotham’s chance for the NWSL double.
