Portland beats Orlando, snaps 24-game undefeated streak for Pride

Portland made history with what appeared to be a routine 2-0 win Friday night, beating Orlando to snap the league's longest undefeated streak. Goals either side of half time was enough to carry the Thorns past the Pride, who have already won the NWSL shield.

Orlando fielded a weakened lineup in the fixture, benching star players Barbara Banda and Marta. Both eventually entered the game but were unable to influence the result.

Orlando's streak remains one of the more remakrable marks in women's soccer, but despite ending has no impact on their commanding lead in NWSL. They wrapped up the regular season title with a win last Sunday.

Second-placed Washington Spirit may have a game in hand, but even a win against Racing Louisville would close the gap to seven points with two regular season games remaining.

For Portland, though, the win could be vital. The Thorns are in seventh place, and after the victory opened up a six-point lead over Louisville - all-but securing a playoff spot.

Portland has historically been a tough place to travel for Orlando. The Pride have won at Providence Park just once in club history, besting the Thorns in 2018.

The Pride have two more regular-season fixtures before post season play. They face Gotham on Oct. 20, before hosting Seattle Reign on Nov. 2. NWSL playoffs start on Nov. 9.