Seattle Reign FC 1-0 San Diego Wave FC

Maddie Mercado’s first-half header gave Seattle Reign FC a hard-fought 1-0 National Women’s Soccer League victory over San Diego Wave FC at Lumen Field on Sunday night.

The fixture turned early when San Diego defender Amelia Van Zanten was sent off in the 13th minute, leaving the visitors to navigate most of the match with 10 players. The Wave remained competitive despite the disadvantage and controlled 58.9% of possession, but Seattle made its key moment count.

Mercado broke the deadlock in the 29th minute, rising to head home the only goal of the match. It was a clinical reward for the Reign’s attacking pressure, with the hosts recording four shots on target from nine attempts.

San Diego responded with determination after the interval, producing 13 shots and putting six on target. Seattle’s defensive unit stood firm, however, protecting its narrow advantage through a tense second half. Jordyn Bugg was booked in the 59th minute, while Phoebe McClernon saw yellow in first-half stoppage time as the Reign managed the closing stages.

The Wave also picked up a late yellow card in the 82nd minute, but could not find an equaliser despite earning four corners and carrying the larger share of the ball. Seattle, who won only two corners and had 41.1% possession, showed greater efficiency in the decisive areas of the pitch.

The result moves Seattle’s record to 10-4-8, while San Diego falls to 12-3-8. The Reign next host Bay FC on Saturday, September 12, while the Wave return home to face North Carolina Courage later that day.

Goal Scorer

  • Seattle Reign FC: Maddie Mercado, 29′

Match Summary

  • Half-time: Seattle Reign FC 1-0 San Diego Wave FC
  • Full-time: Seattle Reign FC 1-0 San Diego Wave FC
  • Red card: Amelia Van Zanten, San Diego Wave FC, 13′
  • Attendance: 9,104