Asisat Oshoala scores as Bay FC suffer NWSL playoffs heartbreak

In a thrilling encounter in the NWSL playoffs, Asisat Oshoala and Bay FC saw their championship hopes extinguished after a 2-1 defeat to the Washington Spirit.

The match marked a significant moment for both Oshoala and the club, as it was Bay FC’s first playoff appearance in their inaugural season.

The game, held on a tense night at the Spirit’s home ground, began with a solid defense from both teams, resulting in a goalless first half.

The second half saw a shift in momentum when Bay FC took the lead in the 82nd minute. Oshoala, the Nigerian star and former Barcelona forward, skillfully converted a cross from her teammate Hocking, bringing the crowd to their feet.

However, the lead was short-lived, as Tara McKeown equalized for Washington just four minutes later, sending the match into extra time after a goalless 90 minutes.

The turning point came in the 96th minute when Caprice Dydasco inadvertently scored an own goal, handing the Spirit the decisive lead.

Despite their efforts, Bay FC could not find the back of the net again, and the match concluded with Washington emerging victorious, knocking Bay FC out of the playoffs.

Oshoala, who was recently absent from the Super Falcons for friendly matches against Algeria, is expected to return to action as Nigeria prepares to face France in an upcoming international friendly.