Reilyn Turner scored the lone goal in the 94th minute, leading the Portland Thorns to a 1-0 extra-time victory over the San Diego Wave in the quarterfinals of the National Women’s Soccer League playoffs on Sunday.
Turner secured the Thorns’ spot in the semifinals with a powerful header in front of 19,309 fans at Providence Park in Portland, Oregon. Prior to the decisive goal, the Thorns’ best chance came in the 44th minute when Moultrie received the ball in space just eight yards out. However, with only the Wave goalkeeper to beat, her shot struck the post and went unanswered.
San Diego Wave defender Kennedy Wesley nearly leveled the match in the 74th minute with a speculative shot from outside the box that rattled the crossbar. Moments later, Portland goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold made a crucial save, tipping a long-range shot from Kenza Dali over the bar.
As the match entered extra time, chances were scarce for both teams until Turner’s breakthrough header. Following the goal, the Wave struggled to respond, managing only four chances in the final 26 minutes of extra time.
Despite San Diego dominating possession with 60%, both teams finished level in shots, each recording 19 attempts.
With this victory, the No. 3 seed Portland Thorns will now travel to face the No. 2 seed Washington Spirit in the semifinals.
https://mymotherlode.com/sports/soccer-general-news/10165733/turner-scores-thorns-beat-wave-1-0-after-extra-time-advance-to-playoff-semifinals.html
