Seattle Reign x Louisville City FC

In front of the third-largest standalone regular season attendance in club history, Seattle Reign FC drew 1-1 with Racing Louisville FC during their annual Pride match, presented by Starbucks. The match began with dramatic intensity as Reign forward Jordyn Huitema was fouled in the box by Racing Louisville defender Arin Wright, resulting in a penalty and a red card for Wright after a VAR review. Bethany Balcer confidently converted the penalty, scoring her fifth goal of the season and putting the Reign ahead just 10 minutes into the match.

Seattle dominated possession following the goal, with midfielders Ji and Quinn testing Louisville goalkeeper Katie Lund before the 20-minute mark. Tziarra King also had a stellar chance in the 29th minute, but Lund’s quick reflexes kept the ball out of the net. A significant collision in the Reign’s penalty area just before halftime saw Louisville’s Taylor Flint substituted due to a concussion. In the second half, the Reign maintained their control but couldn't extend their lead, with all seven of their shots failing to hit the target.

Deep into stoppage time, Racing Louisville found an equalizer. Lund's free-kick delivery into the box was headed by midfielder Jaelin Howell towards the back post, where forward Reilyn Turner seized the opportunity to level the match. The draw extends the series record to 1 win, 1 loss, and 6 draws between the Reign and Racing Louisville FC. Balcer’s goal added to her impressive tally, making her the only player in the NWSL to score at least five goals in every season since 2019. Despite the disappointment of the late equalizer, the Reign showcased their depth and resilience, with defender Sofia Huerta being the only player to start all 14 games and play every minute this season.

[Photography by Jackie Shinstrom]