Houston Dash Seek Statement Win Against Playoff-Bound Portland Thorns
(image via Houston Dash)
The Houston Dash are in Portland this afternoon on Decision Day to face the Thorns. While the Dash are out of playoff contention, they’ll look to play spoiler against a Thorns side still battling for home-field advantage in the postseason.
When: Sunday, November 2 | 4:00 PM CT
Where: Providence Park; Portland, Oregon
TV/Stream: NWSL+
Strong End to the Season
The Dash’s 2025 campaign has been a rollercoaster. After a rough start, the team found its rhythm in the second half, showing glimpses of its true potential. Wins over top sides like San Diego, the Kansas City Current, and Gotham FC gave fans renewed belief that this team is headed in the right direction. Closing the season with a win would be the perfect way to cap off this promising finish. Three points today would also give Houston 22 points for the second half of the season, doubling their output from the first half.
Building on This Year
Head coach Fabrice Gautrat has impressed in his first full season at the helm. He’s established a solid foundation built around a talented core that includes Maggie Graham, Yazmeen Ryan, Danielle Colaprico, Malia Berkely, and Avery Patterson — among others who have stepped up throughout the year. Supporters will be eager to see how the club strengthens this core in the offseason and continues to build momentum into next year.
Formidable Foe
The Portland Thorns have battled hard through the second half of the season to clinch their playoff spot. Now, with that secured, they’ll be pushing for a win to lock in home-field advantage — a critical edge in the first round of the NWSL playoffs. Rising star Olivia Moultrie has been a standout, showcasing maturity beyond her years at just 20. Surrounded by a dynamic midfield, she’ll make life difficult for the Dash as Houston looks to finish the season on a high note. Portland came to Shell Energy Stadium this season and dominated the Dash in a 4-1 victory. A season sweep would send the Thorns heading into the postseason riding high.
Availability Report
Houston Dash – Out: Evelina Duljan (ankle), Maggie Graham (SEI-shoulder), Amanda West (SEI-knee), Sophie Schmidt (SEI-knee), Kiki Van Zanten (illness), Nadia Cooper (concussion), Allysha Chapman (face); Questionable: Ryan Gareis (knee)
Portland Thorns - Out: Caiya Hanks (SEI-knee), Valerin Loboa (knee), Marie Muller (SEI-knee), Nicole Payne (SEI-knee), MA Vignola (ankle), Olivia Wade-Katoa (maternity leave), Morgan Weaver (SEI-knee), Sophia Wilson (maternity leave)
Predicted Lineup
