Orlando Pride's playoff hopes could come down to Marta and nine crucial games | OneFootball

The race for the NWSL playoffs is well underway. No team has been eliminated or clinched as of yet. Some teams are currently well positioned to clinch, such as Gotham FC and the San Diego Wave.

Currently, the eighth and final spot is being held by the Seattle Reign. They have 28 points in the season. Five teams are within five points of the Reign, with Racing Louisville FC at 23 points and four others closer to the Reign.

One of those teams is the Orlando Pride. They are just two points back of the Reign. They need to view the next two months as a way to move way ahead instead of saying they have wiggle room for losses.

The Orlando Pride have nine games to make up two points to secure a playoff spot

They play the Houston Dash twice in that span. The Dash are currently tied with the Pride at 26 points. Gaining at least four points in that span may be a key element to them getting back into the postseason.

Their final game is against the Reign, and if things stay the same, this may be a victory for the final postseason spot. The Pride should focus on gaining three points instead of ending in a draw in any of the next few games. But a point is a point if they find the back of the net.

Veteran leadership will be the key to helping the Pride find their way into the playoffs. The main name they should always look to is Marta. The veteran and one of the best female players of all-time, is continuing to be a strong part of the league.

Marta has two goals on the year but is involved and a key to the Pride

She knows how to see the field. In a 1-0 victory in July against the Chicago Red Stars, she had two crosses and a tackle, proving that her experience can be an asset.

Midfielder Julie Doyle scored against the Red Stars in the victory. The 28-year-old has seven starts under her belt this season. She is another player the younger roster can look to on the pitch.

The Pride have a strong fanbase and have been looking to return to their championship ways of 2024. They are close to a spot but will need to look to certain players to get back to the postseason.