The Spirit converted its first three attempts in alternating order to end the shootout sequence with the fewest rounds necessary.

Instead of a chance to become just the third team in NWSL history to win consecutive titles, the reigning champions — revamped with a collection of stars in the offseason, the superteam label

Gotham FC knew what was at stake.  They had to beat a team that got the best of them in the regular season.  They also could not afford any mistakes made against Portland Thorns FC in the quarterfinals.