The Wave’s late season collapse hit a new low on Sunday, October 5th, as they fell 2–1 to the Washington Spirit on the road at Audi Field. The defeat marks their fourth loss in five matches and extends their dismal run to just one win in their last eleven outings.
Washington’s Rosemonde Kouassi opened the scoring early, finding the back of the net in the 9th minute. From that point on, San Diego’s attack sputtered. The Wave failed to register a single shot on target through the entirety of regulation time looking disconnected and frustrated in the attacking third.
In stoppage time, the Wave finally broke through when Delphine Cascarino scored in the 95th minute, briefly sparking hope that the team could salvage a draw. But that optimism was short-lived. After a defensive lapse from the Wave, Kouassi struck again in the 98th minute from nearly 30 yards out after Kailen Sheridan misjudged the shot, sealing Washington’s victory and extending San Diego’s slump.
Once as high as third in the NWSL standings, the Wave have now fallen to eighth, teetering on the edge of playoff elimination. With only a three point cushion separating them from the cutoff and just three matches left to play, the pressure is on.
Despite the slide, there remains a sense within the locker room that this rough patch could ultimately make the team stronger. Forward Kyra Carusa believes this tough stretch will test and build their character:
“There will be a moment we reflect back on this and we say we had moments like this to have great moments like that (in the future).”
Head coach Jonas Eidevall echoed that sentiment, emphasizing team unity above all else during this crucial stretch.
“The important thing for us is to stay together,” Eidevall said, urging his team to remain connected despite the mounting pressure.
Eidevall still seems confident that the Wave will be in the playoffs. When asked how they plan to get there, his answer was simple:
“Hard work. Dedication. Belief in what we’re doing.”
The Wave remain on the road next week as they face the Utah Royals, a match that has suddenly become must win territory for San Diego. With their postseason hopes fading fast, the team’s season may come down to how well they respond to adversity in these final three matches.