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Jeff Kassouf
Multiple Authors
Portland Thorns forward Sophia Wilson stepped onto the field for the first time in over a year on Friday, contributing to her team’s 1-0 win against the Washington Spirit at Audi Field, marking the start of the 2026 NWSL season.
Wilson, who was named the 2022 NWSL MVP, gave birth to a daughter in September and took the past year off on maternity leave. She made her return as a substitute in the 77th minute. Midfielder Olivia Moultrie scored the only goal of the match in the 52nd minute to secure the win for Portland in D.C.
Having been a standout for the United States during their gold medal success at the 2024 Olympics, Wilson last appeared for the Thorns in a quarterfinal match 488 days ago. She announced her pregnancy in early 2025.
“Being a mom is just the most special experience,” Wilson stated on the Prime Video broadcast prior to the game. “I feel incredibly fortunate. It gives me a sense of purpose beyond just playing soccer.”
For the first time since 2024…
MVP. Golden Boot Winner. Gigi’s Mom.Sophia Wilson returns to the NWSL. pic.twitter.com/12qzoEMVfa
— National Women’s Soccer League (@NWSL) March 14, 2026
Wilson managed to register a shot on goal during stoppage time in the second half.
“Our discussion this morning centered around not just her return but aiming for her to improve even more than before,” new Thorns head coach Robert Vilahamn said after the match.
“In my experience, some players return from having a baby stronger and more motivated. I’ll do everything I can to help her make it back to the national team and excel in this league and for our country.”
Friday’s match was a rematch of the 2025 NWSL semifinal, where the Spirit had previously beaten the Thorns 2-0. The Spirit were runners-up in last year’s final for the second straight season, while Portland faced challenges in the offseason.
Major changes included the departure of former captain Sam Coffey to Manchester City in January.
In late November, former Thorns coach Rob Gale was dismissed. Vilahamn only joined the team this week after a hiring process extending into February and a delay in securing his visa.
After arriving from Sweden, Vilahamn met the team for his first session in Washington, D.C., during a snowy training day on Thursday.
“Once Robert was able to coordinate with the staff, it felt like everyone was aligning,” Moultrie noted. “Despite being here for such a short time, he has effectively communicated, brought great energy, and I’m excited to see how we’ll progress now that he’s here full time.”
The Thorns’ goal originated from their own half, as defender Isabella Obaze moved up through midfield and passed the ball to forward Pietra Tordin on the left. Tordin delivered a low, cutback pass to Moultrie, who skillfully maneuvered around Spirit defender Tara Rudd and with her left foot placed the ball into the net past Washington goalkeeper Sandy MacIver.
“I believe Olivia Moultrie has the potential to be the best player in the world,” Vilahamn remarked. “Her skill is exceptional, and her passion is evident. It’s fantastic to see Sophia back, bringing her energy and getting minutes on the field again, and I’m thrilled about that.”