Spirit coach Adrian Gonzalez, who marked his debut as full-time head coach with the dramatic victory, mentioned after the game that because of Rodman’s minutes management, she was only ever going to play 15 minutes.

It's been quite the summer for Esme Morgan. Fresh off winning the 2025 UEFA Women's Euro with England, Morgan slotted right back into the defensive line for the Washington Spirit. She played like a champion, being flexible in the Spirit's fluctuating three-back setup, and was a steady presence when things were tricky in the final third.

Trinity Rodman returned to the pitch with fireworks, scoring the game-winning goal in stoppage time, leading the Washington Spirit to a 2-1 victory against the Portland Thorns at Audi Field on Sunday.