How Gotham won the Shield & 2026 NWSL Awards picks

Gotham FC are your 2026 NWSL Shield champions, after topping the standings on the final day of the regular season. So, how did Gotham clinch a first-ever Shield in team history, and what other drama unfolded as the playoff spots were locked in?

On this episode of Full Time, moments after the final whistle on Decision Day, the podcast breaks down Gotham’s historic win, San Diego Wave’s second-place finish, and the Seattle Reign squeaking into the eighth and final playoff spot.

PLUS: With the NWSL regular season complete and ballots due this week, The Athletic’s Meg Linehan and Tamerra Griffin give their picks on who should take home the 2026 NWSL Awards. Can Ashley Sanchez still be MVP even though the NC Courage missed the playoffs? Why does Coach of the Year feel wide open? And, as wild as it sounds, should Defender of the Year be about defending?

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HOST: Theo Lloyd-Hughes

PANEL: Meg Linehan, Tamerra Griffin

PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes

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Referenced on the show:

NWSL Decision Day 2026 recap: Gotham FC wins first Shield; Spirit, Wave and Current lock home games

NWSL original Jess Fishlock takes the spotlight after a career of doing quiet work for Seattle

How ESPN is capitalizing on the NWSL’s biggest Decision Day yet

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