The NWSL playoffs picture is complete, as Sunday’s high-octane Decision Day slate crowned a Shield winner and set the 2026 postseason bracket.
No. 1 Gotham clinched its first NWSL Shield with a 2-0 win over No. 7 Utah, holding off No. 2 San Diego despite its own 1-0 victory over No. 14 Bay FC.
“It has taken every single person on our roster to get to this point,” said Bats defender Tierna Davidson. “We’re not done yet, but we’re very proud.”
No. 8 Seattle punched the last playoff ticket with a 1-0 win over No. 11 Orlando, clinching the postseason in legend Jess Fishlock’s home farewell.
No. 9 North Carolina’s 1-0 win over No. 10 Denver secured Ashley Sanchez’s 2026 Golden Boot. However, it wasn’t enough break into the playoffs.
“Every start has an end, and with that end you have a new beginning,” said Courage manager Mak Lind. “I’m excited to keep this journey moving forward.”
