Portland Thorns FC x Seattle Reign FC
Portland Thorns FC celebrated a historic moment as they secured their fifth consecutive victory, marking the longest winning streak in the club's history, with a resounding 4-0 triumph over rivals Seattle Reign FC. The Thorns dominated the Cascadia clash, with goals from Olivia Moultrie, Sophia Smith, Hina Sugita, and Payton Linnehan propelling them to victory. Shelby Hogan's three saves and a crucial goal line clearance from Kelli Hubly ensured a clean sheet for Portland.
In the 30th regular-season meeting between the two sides, the match initially unfolded as a tight contest, with neither team able to carve out clear-cut chances in the opening exchanges. However, the deadlock was broken in the 42nd minute when Sophia Smith found Olivia Moultrie, who calmly slotted home to give the Thorns the lead. Kelli Hubly's goal line clearance just before halftime preserved Portland's advantage.
Seattle Reign threatened to equalize early in the second half, but Shelby Hogan's heroics denied them a breakthrough. The Thorns extended their lead in the 80th minute from the penalty spot, courtesy of Sophia Smith's clinical finish. Then, in stoppage time, Smith turned provider, setting up Hina Sugita for Portland's third goal before assisting Payton Linnehan to seal the 4-0 victory, the largest margin in the history of their rivalry.
[Photography by Jackie Shinstrom]