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NWSL playoffs preview: How can each team win the championship?

NWSL Playoffs Preview: How Can Each Team Win the Championship?

Teams to Watch

1. San Diego Wave

The San Diego Wave finished the regular season with the best record in the NWSL, and they are the clear favorites to win the championship. The Wave have a deep and talented roster, led by Alex Morgan, Abby Dahlkemper, and Sofia Jakobsson. They also have a strong defense, which has allowed the fewest goals in the league this season.

2. OL Reign

The OL Reign are the defending NWSL champions, and they are always a contender to win the title. The Reign have a lot of experience in the playoffs, and they have a number of key players who have been there before. They also have a strong defense, led by Alana Cook and Lauren Barnes.

3. Portland Thorns

The Portland Thorns are one of the most successful teams in NWSL history, and they are always a threat to win the championship. The Thorns have a number of talented players, including Becky Sauerbrunn, Lindsey Horan, and Sophia Smith. They also have a good coach in Rhian Wilkinson, who has a lot of experience in the NWSL.

4. Houston Dash

The Houston Dash are a bit of a surprise team this season, but they have a lot of talent and they are playing with a lot of confidence. The Dash have a number of key players, including Rachel Daly, Kristie Mewis, and Sofia Huerta. They also have a good coach in James Clarkson, who has a lot of experience in the NWSL.

How Can Each Team Win the Championship?

There are a number of factors that will determine which team wins the NWSL championship. Here are some of the key things that each team needs to do in order to be successful:

San Diego Wave

* Continue to play with confidence and swagger * Control the game with their possession * Create chances and score goals * Defend well and limit the opposition's chances

OL Reign

* Stay healthy and get everyone back from injury * Play to their strengths and don't try to be something they're not * Control the midfield and dictate the tempo of the game * Defend well and make it difficult for the opposition to score

Portland Thorns

* Find a way to get everyone on the same page * Play with more consistency and avoid making mistakes * Create chances and score goals * Defend well and make it difficult for the opposition to score

Houston Dash

* Continue to play with confidence and swagger * Control the game with their possession * Create chances and score goals * Defend well and limit the opposition's chances