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The Guardian - US
The Guardian - US
Sport
Beau Dure

Orlando Pride 1-0 Washington Spirit: NWSL championship final – as it happened

Orlando Pride forward Marta, right, battles for the ball with Washington Spirit midfielder Leicy Santos at CPKC Stadium.
Orlando Pride forward Marta, right, battles for the ball with Washington Spirit midfielder Leicy Santos at CPKC Stadium. Photograph: Reed Hoffmann/AP

That’s all for tonight. Here’s Tom Dart’s full report off Orlando’s final win.

So ends a banner season for the NWSL, which has far outlived its predecessor leagues in the USA and is now poised to outspend most European clubs for the world’s top talent. The league has strong owners (in most cities) and solid facilities, and it has agreed with its players union to shore up the salaries that were once barely at “stipend” level.

Next year’s favorites would likely be the Spirit. But the California teams will surely roar back into contention, Kansas City has world-class talent, and Gotham FC has the front office to ensure contender status for years to come.

Thanks for following along tonight. See you next time.

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