In a story of resilience, determination, and triumph, Luana returned from a battle with Hodgkin’s lymphoma to score a last-minute penalty and secure a 2-0 victory for Orlando Pride over the Seattle Reign in the first leg of the NWSL quarterfinals. The win ensures the reigning champions advance to the semifinals, with Luana’s moment marking a milestone in both her personal and professional journey.

Luana’s Remarkable Comeback

Diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma 18 months ago, the 32-year-old Brazilian midfielder returned to professional football in August 2025. Her decisive penalty, scored in the seventh minute of added time, was the perfect capstone to a dramatic match.

Reflecting on her journey after the game, Luana said:

“One year ago, I didn’t even know if I would be playing again. And today, I’m here. Nothing is impossible.”

The penalty was awarded after a spectacular run by fellow Brazilian superstar Marta, who sprinted 75 yards past two defenders before being fouled by Seattle midfielder Sam Meza. Marta’s decision to retain possession rather than simply run down the clock allowed Luana the opportunity to take the spot-kick, resulting in her first goal for Orlando Pride.

Marta’s Leadership Shines

Despite being Orlando’s usual penalty taker, Marta chose to hand the ball to Luana in this crucial moment. “I just come up to her and told her, ‘Take, and finish this f***ing game,’” Marta explained. The 39-year-old Brazilian forward once again demonstrated why she remains one of the most influential figures in women’s football.

Marta’s leadership, experience, and decision-making under pressure proved pivotal, not only for the game’s outcome but for showcasing Orlando Pride’s depth and teamwork.

Key Match Highlights

Orlando Pride opened the scoring in the 20th minute when forward Haley McCutcheon finished a precise one-touch cross from Julie Doyle, slotting the ball past Claudia Dickey, the U.S. women’s national team goalkeeper. McCutcheon has now scored three times in four postseason games, proving she excels in high-pressure playoff situations.

For the remaining 77 minutes, Pride managed the game despite Seattle out-possessing and out-shooting them. Goalkeeper Anna Moorehouse made several crucial saves, including a first-half kick-save that prevented Seattle from equalizing.

Overcoming a Challenging Season

This season, Orlando Pride has struggled to replicate their championship-winning form from 2024. They finished the regular season with 40 points and a No. 4 seed, compared to 60 points at the top of the table last year. Star striker Barbra Banda was sidelined mid-season due to injury, adding to the team’s challenges.

Even amid setbacks, Marta highlighted the team’s enduring spirit:

“We still have the same players here and the same mentality, and still work so hard and still believe. It seems that most of the people outside don’t believe in Pride, but Pride is still the champion and need to have a little bit more respect.”

Semifinal Prospects

Orlando Pride will now face either the No. 1-ranked Kansas City Current or eighth-seeded Gotham FC in the semifinals. Their opponent will be determined in the upcoming quarterfinal match at CPKC Stadium, airing on ESPN.

Luana’s inspirational goal, coupled with Marta’s leadership and McCutcheon’s clutch performance, ensures that Orlando Pride remains a formidable contender for back-to-back NWSL titles.