The NWSL is kicking off the year with a double espresso, as Sophia Wilson and the Portland Thorns visit Trinity Rodman and the Washington Spirit in the league's 2026 season opener on Friday night.
The match is expected to feature Wilson's regular-season return, with the recently re-signed Thorns star taking the field for the first time since 2024 in a preseason friendly last week.
"Obviously I'm being very patient with myself," the new mom said ahead of Friday's clash. "I've just been so eager to get my first game minutes, so I feel like I checked that box. I feel good."
Washington superstar Rodman will aim to spoil her USWNT counterpart's big moment, however, as the world's newly minted highest-paid women's footballer hits the NWSL pitch after an offseason filled with contractual uncertainty.
"At the end of the day, we need to help her be as unpredictable as possible, and help her develop both personally and professionally," Washington manager Adrián González said of his franchise player.
Both teams will also be navigating high-profile departures from their midfields, after 2025 Thorns captain Sam Coffey signed with WSL side Manchester City in January and Spirit centerpiece Croix Bethune transferred to the Kansas City Current last month.
How to watch the first match of the 2026 NWSL season
The 2026 NWSL season kicks off with the Washington Spirit hosting the Portland Thorns at 8 PM ET on Friday, airing live on Prime.
