Pride face key game at Angel City

As the Orlando Pride seek the club’s first NWSL playoff berth since 2017, just three games remain in the regular season, starting with Monday’s 10 p.m. kickoff on CBS Sports Network at Angel City FC’s BMO Stadium in Los Angeles.

The Pride (8-10-1) hold a 1-1-1 record against Angel City FC (6-6-7) since they joined NWSL last season and will have to cope with the threats posed by Claire Emslie and Clarisse Le Bihan as well as one of the league’s most in-form sides. Angel City is on an 11-match unbeaten streak and hasn’t lost since June 10.

“Every game from now until the end is a big game. We are in a really good position, and we all want the same outcome — which is to get three points away from home,” Pride coach Seb Hines said. “It’s a difficult environment to go to, Angel City is on a really good run, but it should be a good game. It’s a good challenge for us. It’ll be a good environment and we are all excited for the upcoming game.”

It’s been a season of ups and downs for the young Orlando team, but strong performances from players such as rookie phenom Messiah Bright as well as veteran leaders such as Marta have kept the team in contention.

“We’re right there. We can taste it. We’re hungry. It’s been a long time coming for this team,” said defender Kylie Strom. “I’ve said it since the beginning of the season: ‘I think we truly do have something special here this year.’ There is a different vibe within the team. We’re really, really strong together. And yeah, I think we’re going to do big things here.”

Orlando will be without midfielder Viviana Villacorta (knee), who has been ruled out for the rest of the season. Defender Kerry Abello (ankle) is questionable.