NWSL Team of the Week: Standout Names Before the Playoffs

The NWSL regular season has ended, and the playoff excitement begins on Friday. On Decision Day, Gotham FC won the NWSL Shield, and Seattle Reign secured the eighth and final playoff spot. Many standout performances came across the eight matches played at the same time.

North Carolina finished outside the playoff race, but goalkeeper Kailen Sheridan kept her team in contention until the last minute. Sheridan made four saves from 12 shots and became the third goalkeeper in NWSL regular-season history to reach 700 saves. Jane Campbell and Alyssa Naeher are also on that list.

Guro Reiten, who joined Gotham FC this season, adjusted to her new team quickly. Reiten joined the squad in mid-April and scored the opening goal on Decision Day from a pass by Midge Purce, contributing to Gotham's Shield win.

In Seattle Reign's crucial match, defender Madison Curry stood out at the back. Against Orlando Pride, Curry made three tackles, three clearances and 12 duels, helping her team maintain its defensive balance. San Diego Wave rookie Mimi Van Zanten scored her second goal of the season. Van Zanten led her team with eight tackles, five interceptions and four clearances, keeping Wave's Shield hopes alive.

At Kansas City Current, injuries and form problems are behind them. Defender Kayla Sharples scored from a set piece. Her crucial header ensured Kansas City will host a playoff game at home.