Portland thorns x orlando pride

The three-time defending champions came out swinging from the opening kick, and they continued to look threatening even after Portland scored the game's first goal in the sixteenth minute. Morgan Weaver went on to score off a ricochet from a shot by Christine Sinclair that was stopped and ultimately placed home.

Again, the Thorns scored only five minutes later. Sophia Smith, the 2022 NWSL Most Valuable Player, achieved this second goal off a cutback ball from Sinclair. Her strong shot was blocked at the goal line, giving Portland a 2-0 lead. The second half was no different, with the Portland faithful ecstatic after only three minutes when Hina Sugita scored. Sugita scored her first goal of the 2023 season by putting away a rebound by Sophia Smith.

Michelle Vasconcelos scored the final goal-winning goal with 15 minutes remaining in regulation. Starting deep in Portland's defensive half, Hina Sugita made a sweeping 180-degree spin with the ball to separate two Orlando players and break free. Her pass to Sophia Smith was collected and advanced to the byline, where the current MVP crossed the ball into the penalty area, where a waiting Vasconcelos slipped in and knocked it home.

With Portland in command, the closing ten minutes of the encounter were played at a more sedate pace. After the final whistle sounded, it was clear why the Thorns were the champions walking away with an impressive 4-0 score.

[Photography by Jackie Shinstrom]