Trinity Rodman’s brace lifts Spirit to NWSL win, keeps title race alive

Washington Spirit moved to within one point of the NWSL Women leaders after Trinity Rodman’s first-half brace secured a 3-1 win over San Diego Wave on July 13, 2026. The result leaves Spirit second in the table with 27 points from 13 games, eight wins and three draws behind leaders Wave.

How did Spirit pull off the upset?

Rodman opened the scoring in the 12th minute, controlling a loose ball in the box before slotting past Wave goalkeeper Kailen Sheridan. Her second came in the 37th, latching onto a through ball from Andi Sullivan before rounding Sheridan to make it 2-0 at halftime. Spirit doubled the lead early in the second half through Ashley Sanchez, who finished clinically after a quick counter. Wave pulled one back late, but Spirit held on for the three points.

Why this win is huge for Spirit

Spirit remain unbeaten in their last five matches, a run that includes wins over OL Reign and Kansas City Current. Their 22 goals scored this season rank second in the league, while the 10 conceded is the joint-lowest tally alongside Wave. With Wave dropping points elsewhere, Spirit now sit just one point adrift of the summit.

Next up for Spirit and the title race

Spirit face Portland Thorns next on the road before a home clash with Chicago Red Stars. Wave, meanwhile, host North Carolina Courage in a potential title-decider. A win would keep Spirit’s momentum going into the summer stretch, where every point counts in the tight race.

League standing: 2nd in NWSL Women, 27 pts, 8W-3D-2L from 13 games, recent form WWWLW. Goals this season: 22 scored, 10 conceded (+12 goal difference). Title race: 1 point behind leaders San Diego Wave.