One win down, two to go as the Orlando Pride seek to become the first repeat champions in the NWSL since the North Carolina Courage did it in 2018 and 2019.

The Pride defeated Seattle Reign FC 2-0 in a thrilling playoff matchup on Friday night at Inter&Co Stadium, controlling the game from start to finish and never allowing Seattle to mount a serious threat.

Orlando opened the scoring with excellent team play in the 21st minute. Marta started the move with a pass out wide to Julie Doyle, who delivered a low cross to Haley McCutcheon. McCutcheon’s shot was perfectly placed, sliding past goalkeeper Claudia Dickey to put the Pride up 1-0.

“I just take an extra moment to realize my role on this team. I think that we all stepped up tonight, and we all step up in the big moments. But especial

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