San Diego Wave FC Faces Orlando Pride in Crucial NWSL Showdown

SAN DIEGO, March 27, 2025 – San Diego Wave FC will travel to Orlando this weekend to take on the Pride in a crucial National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) matchup. Kickoff is scheduled for Saturday, March 29, at 9 a.m. PT at Inter & Co Stadium. Both clubs are eager to build momentum as the season progresses.

The Wave enter the match with a record of 1-0-1, earning four points so far after a thrilling 3-2 victory against Utah Royals last weekend. Meanwhile, the Pride boasts an unbeaten start at 2-0-0, currently leading the NWSL with six points. In previous encounters, Orlando holds a slight edge in the series, leading 3-1-2, including a 1-1 draw in their last meeting at Snapdragon Stadium on June 7, 2024.

In the previous matchup, the Pride took an early lead, with Barbra Banda assisting forward Julie Doyle‘s volley in the 36th minute. The Wave equalized in the 62nd minute through a powerful shot from Makenzy Robbe after a mix-up in the box. This time around, both teams will be looking to capitalize on their current forms.

Last week, the Wave secured their first season win in a hard-fought home opener against the Utah Royals. Star player Gia Corley contributed significantly, scoring the game-winning goal in the 74th minute after intercepting a pass from the Royals’ goalkeeper. Corley also assisted María Sánchez‘s goal in the seventh minute, showcasing her offensive prowess.

Meanwhile, the Pride also comes off a solid performance, defeating Gotham FC 2-0 on March 23. An early own goal by a Gotham defender set the momentum for Orlando, followed by a penalty converted by Marta in stoppage time. The Pride will look to continue this winning streak against a determined Wave team.

Key players to watch include forward Delphine Cascarino of the Wave, who leads the league in assists after contributing to seven goals in just twelve appearances this season. Cascarino has recorded four assists in her last four matches, showcasing her ability to create scoring opportunities.

On the opposing side, Barbra Banda is a standout for the Pride. With an impressive season behind her, including winning the MVP award at the 2024 NWSL Championship, she scored 13 goals last year and has already made her mark this season. Banda’s speed and skill will be critical in an encounter expected to be competitive.

As fans gear up for the clash, the game will be broadcast nationally on ESPN, allowing supporters from both teams to catch the action live. Fans in San Diego are invited to join the Sirens Supporter Group to watch the game together at a local venue, making for an exciting atmosphere for the matchup.

Saturday’s matchup at Inter & Co Stadium promises to be an intriguing battle as Wave FC seeks to assert their presence against the defending champions. With both teams showing strong performances this season, the stakes are high, and the excitement is palpable.