Orlando Pride’s playoff hopes are over. Can they regroup and rediscover their 2024 winning formula?
The Orlando Pride needed to win their match against the Houston Dash on Sunday to keep their playoff hopes afloat. The 2024 NWSL Shield winners and champions did that, earning three needed points with a gritty 2-1 road victory. Rookie forward Solai Washington scored her first professional goal, the eventual game-winner after midfielder Luana converted a penalty following a foul Washington drew.…
Orlando Pride's playoff aspirations have ended, but the team can still regroup and rediscover their 2024 winning formula. In a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Houston Dash, rookie forward Solai Washington scored her first professional goal, the decisive one in the 85th minute. The absence of star goalscorer Barbra Banda due to CDC travel restrictions for Ebola did not prevent the Pride from earning crucial points.
Despite recent setbacks, including the firing of head coach Seb Hines and the promotion of assistant head coach Yolanda Thomas, the team showed glimpses of their past success. The Pride's defensive struggles, particularly with a high goal average against, are a concern that must be addressed. With Banda's long-term contract secured, the focus now shifts to evaluating the roster and making strategic decisions about player roles and future signings.
Head coach Yolanda Thomas, the first Black female head coach in NWSL history, could be a strong candidate for a permanent position if she can bring clarity and direction to the team.
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