Wilson makes comeback from maternity leave in Thorns’ NWSL season-opening win
Portland Thorns forward Sophia Wilson made her return to competitive play on Friday, participating in her team’s 1-0 win against the Washington Spirit at Audi Field, marking the beginning of the 2026 NWSL season after more than a year away from the pitch.
Wilson, the 2022 NWSL MVP, welcomed her daughter in September and spent the entirety of the previous year on maternity leave. She came off the bench in the 77th minute during Friday’s match. Midfielder Olivia Moultrie netted the only goal of the game in the 52nd minute, securing the victory for Portland.
Wilson, who excelled for the United States during its gold-medal campaign at the 2024 Olympics, last appeared for the Thorns in their 2024 quarterfinal, which was 488 days prior. She revealed her pregnancy in early 2025.
“Being her mom is just the most special thing ever,” Wilson stated on the Prime Video broadcast before the match. “I feel so fortunate. It makes me feel like I’m playing for something much larger than what I was playing for before.”
For the first time since 2024…
MVP. Golden Boot Winner. Gigi’s Mom.
Sophia Wilson returns to the NWSL. pic.twitter.com/12qzoEMVfa
— National Women’s Soccer League (@NWSL) March 14, 2026
Wilson recorded a shot on goal during stoppage time in the second half.
“What we discussed this morning was not just about returning, but also about pushing her to exceed her previous performance,” new Thorns head coach Robert Vilahamn remarked after the match.
“Several players I have coached have had a baby and returned even stronger and more driven, and I intend to support her in every way possible to ensure she reclaims her spot on the national team and continues to excel in this league and for this country.”
Friday’s match was a rematch of the 2025 NWSL semifinal held in November, which the Spirit won 2-0. The Spirit faced defeat in the final last year for the second consecutive time. Portland experienced a challenging offseason.
Former captain Sam Coffey transferred to Manchester City in a significant move in January.
Former Thorns head coach Rob Gale was dismissed in late November. Vilahamn joined the team only this week following a prolonged hiring process that extended into February and a brief wait for his visa.
Vilahamn traveled from Sweden and met the team for the first time in Washington, D.C., during a snowy training session on Thursday.
“As soon as Robert was able to connect with the staff, they were all aligning their strategies,” Moultrie noted. “Even though he has literally been here for about 24 hours, I believe he has done an excellent job of coming in, being clear, and bringing great energy. I’m very eager to see what else we can develop now that he is here full-time.”
Portland’s goal originated from their own half. Defender Isabella Obaze advanced through midfield and passed the ball to forward Pietra Tordin on the left side. Tordin delivered a low, cutback pass to Moultrie, who maneuvered the ball around Spirit defender Tara Rudd and used her left foot to slot the ball past Washington goalkeeper Sandy MacIver.
“I think Olivia Moultrie has the potential to be the best player in the world,” Vilahamn commented. “She is incredibly talented and has immense passion. Sophia is already among the best players globally. It’s wonderful to see her returning with energy and gaining minutes now, so I’m very satisfied with that.”
