Christine Sinclair scores in her retirement match
Portland Thorns Clinch Playoff Spot with Win in Christine Sinclair’s Retirement Match
Portland, Ore. – Canada’s soccer legend Christine Sinclair marked her celebratory retirement match with a goal as the Portland Thorns secured a playoff spot with a convincing 3-0 victory over Angel City on Friday night at Providence Park.
Sinclair, who is bidding farewell to her illustrious career this season, found the back of the net in the 16th minute in front of a roaring crowd of 23,212 supporters. Young talents Sophia Smith and Morgan Weaver also got on the scoresheet for Portland in their final regular-season game.
Despite Sinclair’s retirement, her club career will continue for a little longer as the Thorns await their opening round opponent, which will be determined after this weekend’s final regular-season matches.
The 38-year-old forward, who retired from the Canadian national team last year as the leading goal scorer in international soccer history, has been a pivotal figure in Portland’s success over the years. She played a crucial role in the Thorns winning the NWSL championship in 2013 and adding more titles in 2017 and 2022.
Sinclair holds the club record with 66 regular-season goals, placing her third in the league’s all-time scoring charts. Her milestone 200th appearance for Portland was celebrated with a goal and a memorable ovation from the fans.
After Sinclair’s early strike, Smith notched her 12th goal of the season in the 26th minute, followed by Weaver’s first-half stoppage-time effort to seal the victory for the Thorns.
In the 83rd minute, Sinclair was substituted off to a rousing reception from the crowd and was honored in a post-game ceremony, where she expressed her gratitude to the fans for their unwavering support throughout her career.
Sinclair capped off an illustrious international career last year as the all-time leading goal scorer in both men’s and women’s soccer with 190 goals. She boasts a gold medal from the Tokyo Olympics and bronze medals from the 2012 and 2016 Games, in addition to being one of the few players to feature in six Women’s World Cups and score in five.
Hailing from Burnaby, British Columbia, Sinclair also tasted success at the collegiate level, winning NCAA championships with the University of Portland in 2002 and 2005.
Gotham Defeats Utah Royals 4-1
In another NWSL matchup, Gotham emerged victorious with a 4-1 win over the Utah Royals. Esther Gonzalez was the standout performer with a brace, while Yazmeen Ryan and Mandy Freeman also found the back of the net for the visitors.
Despite Hannah Betfort pulling one back for Utah in the 74th minute, Esther’s two late goals sealed the deal for Gotham. The result confirmed Utah’s elimination from playoff contention.
