The Washington Spirit have shown resiliency throughout a remarkable late-season run, and they did it again, advancing in the NWSL playoffs thanks to a 1-0 extra time win over the North Carolina Courage. Golden Boot winner Ashley Hatch pounced for a 113th minute game-winner, giving Washington just their second-ever playoff victory and securing a trip to the semifinals next week, while Aubrey Bledsoe produced eight saves in her third straight shutout.
The early stages saw a wide-open game, with both teams getting high-quality looks. Aubrey Bledsoe had to do well to make a 22nd minute save on Debinha after Merritt Mathias picked her out with a cross to the back post.