There are many sports fans in San Diego who are new to NWSL playoffs. Here is a guide to follow our hometown pride, the San Diego Wave FC, in their 2025 postseason playoff run.

NWSL Playoff Format

The NWSL playoff format features the top eight teams from the regular season competing in a single-elimination tournament.

Quarterfinals (Nov 7-9): Top 4 seeds host games
Semifinals (Nov 15-16): Higher seeds host
NWSL Championship (Nov 22): PayPal Park, San Jose

Tiebreakers: If a playoff game is tied after 90 minutes of regulation, the teams will play two 15-minute overtime periods. If still tied after extra time, a penalty kick shootout will decide the winner.

2025 NWSL Quarterfinal Matchups

• #1 Kansas City Current vs #8 Gotham FC (Sunday, Nov 9 at 12:30 PM ET – ABC)
• #2 Washington Spirit vs #7 Racing Louisville (Saturday, Nov 8 at 12:00 PM ET – CBS)
• #3 Portland Thorns vs #6 San Diego Wave (Sunday, Nov 9 at 3:00 PM ET / 12:00 PM PT – ABC)
• #4 Orlando Pride vs #5 Seattle Reign (Friday, Nov 7 at 8:00 PM ET – Prime Video)

San Diego Wave’s 2025 Season

The San Diego Wave finished in 6th place with 37 points, securing their third playoff appearance in four seasons. The Wave clinched their playoff spot with a dominant 6-1 victory over Chicago on October 18, setting a franchise record with six goals in a single game.

How to Watch

The Wave’s quarterfinal match against Portland airs on ABC on Sunday, November 9 at 12:00 PM PT.

The Wave is hosting an Official Watch Party at Novo Brazil Brewing in Mission Valley with DJ King Marie, raffles, giveaways, and the first 50 drinks covered by the club. RSVP required – visit sandiegowavefc.com for details.

Playoff Tickets

Season ticket members receive priority access if the Wave advances and hosts a semifinal match at Snapdragon Stadium on November 15 or 16.

2026 Season Tickets