Paige Metayer Leads Washington Spirit to NWSL Championship at PayPal Park

UPDATE: Paige Metayer, the dynamic force from Cal, is set to take the field as the Washington Spirit face Gotham FC in the NWSL Championship at PayPal Park on Saturday. This highly anticipated match is crucial for the Spirit as they aim for their first title since 2021.

Metayer, known for her versatility on the field, has rapidly become one of the NWSL’s standout players. The championship is particularly significant for her as it marks a return to the Bay Area where she honed her skills at Cal, and where her journey to professional soccer began.

After enduring a knee injury earlier this season, Metayer has made a remarkable comeback, contributing to the Spirit’s playoff run. In the 2024 season, she made 20 regular-season appearances and played a pivotal role in the team’s success. Head coach Adrián González praises her adaptability, stating, “It’s so positive for a player to have that many options.”

The match kicks off at 8:00 PM ET, and fans are eagerly anticipating a thrilling showdown. Metayer’s experience, which includes starting in last year’s championship loss, will be crucial as the Spirit seeks redemption against Gotham FC.

The atmosphere at PayPal Park is expected to be electric, with the Cal women’s soccer alumni network organizing a tailgate to support Metayer. The former Golden Bear expressed her excitement, stating, “To play the final here is special,” referencing the growing support for women’s sports in the Bay Area.

As the Spirit prepares for this decisive match, all eyes will be on Metayer to see if she can lead her team to victory and secure the coveted NWSL title. Fans should tune in for what promises to be a historic and emotional night in women’s soccer.

Stay tuned for live updates as the championship unfolds.