Seattle Reign begins their final homestand of the season tonight by welcoming Bay FC, the only team in the league that they have yet to beat in NWSL play. The two sides have met three times in their history, with Bay winning both matches last season and the teams splitting points in a 1-1 draw in April. Racheal Kundananji scored in the first half for the hosts and Jordyn Huitema equalized shortly after halftime in that game.

Since that time things have not gone as hoped for the California club, which is winless in its last 12 matches and collected only four points over that stretch. They were eliminated from playoff contention with a 2-1 loss at Portland last weekend and head coach Albertin Montoya has announced he will be stepping down at the end of the season.

With a win tonight and favorable results elsewhere this weekend, Seattle can clinch their spot in the 2025 NWSL playoffs:

Reign win + Spirit draw/win
Reign win + Red Stars win + KC draw/win
Reign win + Red Stars draw + KC win
Reign draw + Spirit win + Angel City win/draw

Keys to the game

Set the tone early
Stay on the front foot
Respect Kundananji’s speed on counters

Notes

Midfielder Maddie Mercado was recalled from her loan to Carolina Ascent of the USL Super League and is available for selection. Sally Menti is dealing with an injury from the first half of last weekend’s game at Gotham and is unavailable, but should not be out long-term. Mia Fishel continues to carry a minor knock she picked up against Kansas City which is limiting her minutes.
Following the match, the club is inviting children age 5-12 to go onto the field to score a goal. Participation is free, but parents need to register for the event at the Kids Club booth in the North Plaza. This event was originally scheduled to follow the Racing Louisville game, but had to be postponed after that match was suspended at halftime.
The deciding game of the American League Division Series between the Mariners and Tigers is taking place next door at T-Mobile Park, with first pitch at 5:08 PM and a sell-out anticipated. Expect parking to be at a very high premium and potential road closures around the stadium district. Consider public transit if at all possible.

Injuries, absences, suspensions

Reign: OUT: Lynn Biyendolo (knee), Ryanne Brown (leg), Veronica Latsko (SEI – lower leg), Sally Menti (lower leg), Cassie Miller (D45 – leg), Olivia Van der Jagt (excused absence)

Bay: OUT: Abby Dahlkemper (maternity leave), Onyeka Gamero (SEI – knee), Melissa Lowder (SEI – knee), Emily Menges (maternity leave)