Reign FC Kick Off NWSL Season with Weather-Delayed Victory Over Orlando Pride

ORLANDO, FL – The Seattle Reign FC began their 2026 National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) season with a 2-1 road victory over the Orlando Pride on Sunday, March 15, 2026. The match was significantly delayed due to inclement weather.

Match Summary

The Reign took the lead in the 24th minute when Nérilia Mondésir assisted Jess Fishlock, who skillfully maneuvered past defenders to score the opening goal. Orlando nearly equalized in the 42nd minute with a goal from Rafaelle, but it was disallowed due to a foul.

After a weather delay lasting approximately three hours, the Pride found the equalizer in the 51st minute. Haley McCutcheon set up Barbra Banda, who recently returned from a season-ending injury .

Ratcliffe Secures the Win

The decisive goal came in the 83rd minute from Brittany Ratcliffe, who headed home a pass from Mondésir – her second assist of the game – to secure the 2-1 victory for Seattle .

Looking Ahead

The Seattle Reign will continue their road trip, facing the Portland Thorns next weekend .

Elsewhere in the NWSL, Angel City FC opened their season with a 4-0 win against the Chicago Stars .