In an action-packed international club friendly on June 29, 2026, San Diego Wave Women came from behind to defeat Portland Thorns FC Women 4-3 in a seven-goal thriller. The match, played in front of a lively crowd in Portland, served as a high-intensity preseason test for both NWSL powerhouses, with San Diego showcasing their attacking depth and resilience.

Match Overview

Portland Thorns started brightly, dominating possession and creating early chances. Their high press paid off in the 12th minute when a defensive miscue from San Diego allowed Portland’s forward to slot home from close range. San Diego responded with quick, incisive passing, equalizing in the 28th minute through a well-placed header from a corner kick. The back-and-forth nature of the game set the tone for a frantic first half.

Portland regained the lead just before halftime, capitalizing on a set piece to make it 2-1. The Thorns took that advantage into the break, but San Diego came out with renewed purpose in the second half. A stunning individual run and finish in the 52nd minute brought the score to 2-2, and the Wave continued to push forward.

Key Moments

• 12' – Portland Thorns 1-0: Quick reaction after a defensive error gives Portland the early lead.
• 28' – San Diego Wave 1-1: Powerful header from a corner kick restores parity.
• 44' – Portland Thorns 2-1: A looping free-kick delivery is headed in at the back post.
• 52' – San Diego Wave 2-2: Dazzling solo run and finish from the left wing.
• 68' – San Diego Wave 3-2: Quick one-two and a clinical shot from inside the box.
• 80' – Portland Thorns 3-3: Deflected long-range effort finds its way into the net.
• 88' – San Diego Wave 4-3: Coolly converted penalty after a handball in the box.

Tactical Story

The friendly allowed both teams to test different formations and rotations. Portland’s high press caused problems early, but San Diego’s midfield adjustments in the second half neutralized the Thorns’ buildup. The Wave’s ability to switch play quickly stretched the Portland defense, creating spaces for their forwards to exploit. The match also saw several substitutes make an impact, highlighting squad depth on both sides.

Standout Players

San Diego’s forward who scored the equalizer and provided an assist was a constant threat, while Portland’s midfielder controlled large periods of the first half. The match was a showcase of attacking talent, with seven different goal-scorers contributing to the scoreline.

Season Preparation Context

For Portland Thorns, the loss provides valuable lessons as they fine-tune their defensive organization ahead of the NWSL regular season. San Diego Wave will take confidence from their comeback ability and attacking flair. Friendly matches like this offer a crucial platform for building chemistry and testing strategies under match conditions.

Both sides will now turn their attention to their upcoming fixtures, with the NWSL season promising more thrilling encounters between these two talented squads.