Orlando Pride called to sharpen up for the NWSL post-season

After two consecutive losses, Orlando Pride players now know they have to get sharp – focused – from the very start of every match.

Gotham FC punched the second consecutive loss for the Orlando Pride. That prompted Pride midfielder Cori Dyke to note that the team needs to commit to getting in focus – sharp is how she put it – from the start of every match from now on.

Team culture was easy to carry as the Orlando Pride built their greatest season ever in 2024. They earned a record of 17-2-6 this year. Now, Dyke said, they have to grow through the adversity they’ve experienced during these consecutive losses.

They have to regain the good culture they cultivated during their outstanding season, during which they played undefeated until recently. If they achieve this and continue to carry that strong culture as a banner, they can become an even stronger team during the NWSL post-season.

They lost the match to Gotham FC 3-1. Goals were scored for Gotham by Sam Hiatt, Rose Levelle and Ella Stevens, with an assist on the third goal by Bruninha.

Orlando’s lone goal came from a penalty kick by Adriana in the 31st minute. This is off the third penalty drawn by Barbra Banda this season – all resulting in scores.

 Head Coach Seb Hines said he realizes that Orlando has faced teams motivated to accomplish goals as they finish out the 2024 season. It’s a challenge to keep a squad motivated when they already have won the NWSL Shield, gaining a home pitch advantage for the semi-final round of the playoffs.

But the Orlando Pride still has goals to achieve. This is only the second team in team history to reach the playoffs. The first was in 2017. They could be the first Pride squad to win it all.

They achieved much in earning the NWSL Shield, including a league-record 23-match unbeaten streak and individual players earning five Olympic medals.

But from the start they have to focus.