NWSL playoff preview: USWNT stars Trinity Rodman and Sophia Wilson collide - but can anyone stop reigning champions Gotham?

The NWSL playoffs are set to begin, with a headline first-round matchup featuring USWNT stars Trinity Rodman and Sophia Wilson facing off on opposing sides. Reigning champions Gotham FC will begin their title defense as one of eight teams competing in the quarterfinals. The playoff preview, published on November 5, 2026, breaks down all eight NWSL playoff teams, key players, and predictions for each quarterfinal fixture.