One week before the 2025 NWSL season kicks off, NWSL fans can get a preview of the season by tuning into a high-stakes rematch between the Orlando Pride and Washington Spirit in the 2025 NWSL Challenge Cup on Friday, March 7, at 8 PM ET on Prime Video. This isn’t just a preseason tune-up—it’s a showdown between 2024’s two best teams, a battle for silverware, and a preview of what’s to come in the new season.
Need a reason to tune in? We’ve got five!
1. A 2024 NWSL Championship Rematch
The last time these two teams met it was for the biggest prize in the league—the 2024 NWSL Championship trophy. Barbra Banda’s first-half strike—a moment of pure individual brilliance—sealed a 1-0 victory, delivering the Pride their first-ever NWSL title and completing an unforgettable Shield-Championship double.
Head Coach Seb Hines’ squad capped off a dominant season—most points, most wins, most clean sheets—with the ultimate prize. But for Washington, the loss left unfinished business. The Spirit were one goal away from forcing penalties, one breakthrough away from their second title since 2021. Now, they have their shot at redemption—and they don’t plan on leaving Orlando empty-handed.
2. Marta’s Next Chapter
Marta isn’t done yet.
After leading Orlando to their historic double (NWSL Shield and Championship) in 2024, the six-time FIFA World Player of the Year is back after re-signing with Orlando for two years. She could have retired on top, but instead, she’s returning to chase more silverware and fans across the league couldn’t be more excited (unlike defenders).
The Challenge Cup Final gives her a chance to start the season the same way she ended the last: lifting a trophy.
3. A Reinforced Washington Spirit
Washington came agonizingly close to lifting the NWSL Championship last season for the second time since 2021, but if 2024 proved anything, it's that the Spirit are built to contend—and now, they have a chance to make an early statement in 2025.
Trinity Rodman, Makenna Morris, and Ashley Hatch return as one of the most dangerous attacking trios in the league, combining pace, power, and precision in the final third. In midfield, Hal Hershfelt and Leicy Santos bring creativity and control, with Croix Bethune—who may not feature due to injury recovery—adding another scoring threat to the offense. But it's the addition of Japanese international Narumi Miura that could be the difference-maker. Miura’s off-the-ball movement and vision add another layer to Washington’s attack, giving them the tools to break down Orlando’s defense.
This isn’t just a rematch—it’s a chance for Washington to prove they belong at the top. A Challenge Cup win over the defending champions would send a clear message to the rest of the league: the Spirit aren’t just here to compete—they’re here to win it all.
4. Orlando Pride is Back and Better Than Ever
After a record-shattering 2024 season, the Orlando Pride are not just back—they’re even stronger. The reigning NWSL Shield winners and NWSL Champions return with a battle-tested core, led by club legend Marta, who signed a two-year deal to extend her legacy in Orlando. Alongside Marta, the Pride return game-changers like Barbra Banda, Angelina, and Emily Sams, ensuring the backbone of their championship squad remains intact.
The Pride didn’t just keep their championship core—they reinforced it. New additions include goalkeeper Kat Asman, defender Zara Chavoshi, Spanish World Cup champion Oihane Hernández, and Zambian forward Prisca Chilufya, adding depth and international pedigree.
With 2024 NWSL Coach of the Year Seb Hines leading a squad stacked with proven stars and rising talent, Orlando is ready to defend their crown—and prove last year was just the start.
5. A Must Watch Season Starts Here
The 2025 NWSL season kicks off just one week after the Challenge Cup Final, making this matchup the perfect preview of what’s to come. With Orlando and Washington—the league’s two best teams from 2024—going head-to-head, this game offers an early look at how both clubs have reloaded, adjusted, and prepared for new challenges.Will Orlando’s dominance carry over into the new year? Can Washington take the next step and claim silverware? Does Orlando have what it takes to defend their title? With the regular season beginning March 14, the Challenge Cup isn’t just a battle for a trophy—it’s a statement game that sets the tone for another thrilling NWSL season.
It all begins on March 7th at 8:00 p.m. ET, streaming live on Prime Video. Two teams. One trophy. One must-watch match.
Check out the Challenge Cup hub