Thorns forward Caiya Hanks scores game-winner in return from ACL injury

In a thrilling match at Providence Park, Portland Thorns' forward Caiya Hanks scored the game-winning goal against the Orlando Pride on Saturday night. The 21-year-old made her return to the field after recovering from an ACL injury sustained in June 2025. Coming on in the 88th minute, Hanks received a pass from fullback M.A. Vignola in the final six minutes of stoppage time.

She dribbled swiftly across the pitch, taking three touches to prepare her shot, and curled it past goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse to the delight of the crowd. Her teammates celebrated around her on the pitch, with her mother and grandmother in the stands visibly emotional. Hanks expressed her gratitude, saying, "It honestly just means so much to me."

She further emphasized the importance of this victory for the team, stating, "It was a very hard 14 months." The Thorns' win provided them with crucial points in the NWSL standings, as they currently sit fourth with 34 points, behind Gotham FC, Utah Royals, and Washington Spirit. Hanks' return is particularly welcome after the team announced that U.S. women's national team midfielder Olivia Moultrie would miss the remainder of the season due to an ACL injury.