The Washington Spirit’s playoff run ended in a second place finish after a thrilling November at Audi Field. Courtesy of Fredo Vasquez
By Fredo Vasquez
Since opening its doors in mid-2018, Audi Field has craved iconic moments to define its legacy. While the stadium has hosted several European teams and major soccer stars, it was the Washington Spirit who created the moments local fans will remember for years to come.
The Spirit showcased their resilience and determination in a thrilling playoff campaign. Playing in front of back-to-back sold-out crowds at Audi Field in early November, the Spirit captivated fans with dramatic victories in the quarterfinals and semifinals before falling short in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) championship game in Kansas City.
In the quarterfinal match against the Kansas City Current held on November 10, the Spirit nearly faced elimination after conceding a goal in the 82nd minute. However, an equalizing goal by Spirit defender Tara McKeown in the 86th minute sent the game into extra time. An own-goal by the Current’s Caprice Dydasco completed the Spirit’s comeback, sending Audi Field into a frenzy that would be replicated six days later.
The semifinal matchup against Gotham FC was nothing short of a classic. After a tense and evenly matched 90 minutes, the Spirit found themselves trailing late in stoppage time. In the 92nd minute, Spirit midfielder Hal Hershfelt scored a header to send the game into extra time. With no winner emerging in 120 minutes, the match was decided by penalty kicks. Goalkeeper Aubrey Kingsbury blocked three penalties in a row to send the Spirit to its second NWSL final.
The championship game against the Orlando Pride, held on November 23 in Kansas City, was a hard-fought contest. Despite controlling possession, the Spirit were unable to break through Orlando’s defense and ultimately fell 1-0.
Though the season ended in heartbreak, the Spirit’s November run highlighted the club’s progress under the leadership of owner Michelle Kang, and the city’s desire to cheer for successful soccer teams. After drawing record crowds to Buzzard Point in 2024, the Spirit are well-positioned to return for a strong 2025 campaign.