Predicting every 2026 NWSL Playoffs quarterfinal matchup

The 2026 National Women’s Soccer League playoffs begin Friday, Nov. 6. The eight best teams from the regular season earned a postseason berth and look to make a run to glory before the calendar ticks over to December.

Who advances? We predict all four quarterfinals.

The Wave comes into the playoffs as the clear favorite after taking their game to another level this season. San Diego is defensively strong thriving with the ball at their feet. Their passing as well is excellent. If an opponent presents a low block, they can break it down and also attack in quick transitions.

Moreover, after seeing the teams’ availability for this matchup, San Diego has a healthier roster giving a slight edge over the Royals.

In the case of Utah, they tend to press aggressively and can be dangerous on set pieces. The Royals can also be a very frustrating team to play against because they’re capable of defending compactly.

The problem for Utah is that the Wave have the necessary tools to break them down. Added to the fact that many of their pivotal players, Cece Delzer, Narumi Miura and Mina Tanaka, are questionable for the quarterfinals.

San Diego’s ability to control possession without becoming vulnerable defensively will be the difference maker.

Prediction: San Diego advances

This is maybe the most anticipated matchup in the quarterfinals.

In one corner, there’s the dangerous attack of Kansas City Current. Given their strength in transition, and their undefeated record at home, the No. 4 seed is favored coming into the game.

On the other side, Angel City is full of confidence after a 10-match unbeaten streak. Their aggressive pressing and improved midfield organization gives them belief that they can stop Temwa Chawinga and company.

If Angel City loses, it’ll come down to their vulnerability on quick counters when there’s too much space to exploit or because they’re playing risky passes that can lead to dangerous turnovers. If they managed to escape CPKC Stadium unscathed, it could be because they disrupted the home team with effective pressure in the midfield.

Both teams have the weapons to hurt one another, although Kansas has the upper hand. However, this game has the potential to produce an upset.

Prediction: Angel City advances

This quarterfinal has all the makings of a lopsided result.

Gotham boasts a strong defensive record, squad depth, strong home record and home advantage. Not to mention, the 2026 NWSL Shield winners beat Seattle twice this year already.

Seattle is certainly comfortable defending deep and can make games difficult and low-scoring. Despite losing both regular season matchups, the Reign scored twice in one which should give the team belief in a playoff atmosphere.

However, Seattle won’t be able to count on Maddie Dahlien for this difficult game. Jess Fishlock, who, in her 14 seasons with Seattle, has carried her team many times and made the impossible happen. In what potentially could be her last dance, she will give everything she has and more to take the Reign to the semifinals. The question is whether that will be enough.

Prediction: Gotham advances

Washington might be the better side on paper, but their late-season form has been inconsistent. They’ve also had to deal with departures and injuries, with Hal Hershfelt the latest.

On the pitch, they can struggle to progress the ball through central areas. However, the Spirit still have great players who can decide games in an instant. Among them are Leicy Santos, who’s back after almost two months out, and, of course, Trinity Rodman. The team’s defensive structure is also better than Portland’s.

What about the Thorns? Their weakest area is in defense. They have also shown limited pressing and counter-pressing, plus a reduction in midfield creativity since Olivia Moultrie got injured.

Yet, they have Sophia Wilson, who can decide matches herself. Additionally, they have several attacking pieces that can score from long range, such as Kaiya Hanks, Morgan Weaver or Marie Müller. Another strength is Jessie Fleming in the midfield, who has partnered up pretty well with Nina Nijstad.

Prediction: Portland advances