San Diego Wave FC is playoff bound for the fourth time in five seasons. If you’re used to the MLS postseason, forget the best-of-3 safety net. NWSL playoffs are one game, win or go home, every round.

2026 NWSL Playoff Format

The top eight teams from the regular season make the playoffs. Single elimination the whole way.

Quarterfinals (Nov 6-8): #1 hosts #8, #2 hosts #7, #3 hosts #6, #4 hosts #5
Semifinals (Nov 13-15): Top remaining seeds host
NWSL Championship (Saturday, Nov 21, 5:00 PM PT): Audi Field, Washington, D.C.

Tied after 90 minutes? Two 15-minute extra time periods, then a penalty shootout if it’s still level.

Can the Wave Host at Snapdragon?

Yes, up to two home playoff matches. A top-four finish means a home quarterfinal. Win that, and the Wave hosts the semifinal if they’re the higher remaining seed. The championship is at a neutral site no matter what.

Playoff Tickets

Home playoff tickets go fast, and the dates aren’t confirmed until the bracket drops November 1. That leaves a short window to buy.

The only way to guarantee playoff seats right now is a Season Ticket Membership. Members get first access to playoff tickets each round, plus year-round benefits.

Wave Season Tickets

How to Watch

Broadcast details for each quarterfinal are announced with the bracket on November 1. Check sandiegowavefc.com for the Wave’s TV channel and any official watch parties.

Last Year: The 2025 Playoff Run

The Wave finished 2025 as the No. 6 seed and went to Portland for the quarterfinal. They controlled the ball for most of the night but lost 1-0 to the Thorns in extra time at Providence Park. San Diego clinched that playoff spot with a 6-1 home win over Chicago on October 18.