Playoff Hunt: How OL Reign Can Clinch a Playoff Spot Today

The 2022 NWSL season features what is arguably the tightest playoff race in league history. Despite being in third place with just two games left to play in the regular season, OL Reign has not yet clinched their spot in the 2022 NWSL playoffs. However, there is a chance the team can do so today. The Reign plays the Houston Dash at 5:30 p.m. PT, in Houston. Here’s how they can clinch their 2022 NWSL playoff berth:

A WIN OR DRAW AGAINST HOUSTON

OL Reign can clinch a playoff spot with a solid result against the Houston Dash tonight, regardless of what happens in other matches across the league. A win or draw secures their place in the playoffs.

A LOSS AGAINST HOUSTON AND NORTH CAROLINA DRAWS OR LOSES

If OL Reign fails to win or draw again Houston tonight, the team can still clinch their place in the 2022 NWSL playoffs if the North Carolina Courage draws or loses in their match against NJ/NY Gotham FC.

A LOSS AGAINST HOUSTON AND A CHICAGO LOSS AND ANGEL CITY DRAW OR LOSS

If OL Reign fails to win or draw against Houston and North Carolina gets a win over NJ/NY Gotham FC, there is still a chance that the Reign can clinch a playoff spot this weekend. In order for this to happen, the Chicago Red Stars would need to lose to the Portland Thorns and Angel City FC would need to draw or lose to Racing Louisville FC.