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Boston Breakers

NWSL Week 20 midweek preview

Two matches midweek and there are implications for everyone. The Reign will be trying to clinch the Shield and the Spirit a playoff spot as they battle FC Kansas City with the second home semifinal spot still very much up for grabs. Even the Breakers can secure draft position–as in the number one position.

Wednesday

Boston Breakers (4-11-3) at Seattle Reign FC (11-3-3)
10:00 pm EDT, Memorial Stadium
Watch: Youtube
Series: Reign lead, 6-0-1

Points of Interest: First hosts worst and if form holds it will clinch those respective placings for the Reign and Breakers. The Reign need a win to clinch first overall, and the Breakers will be assured of finishing last if they lose or draw. And it doesn’t looked good for the Breakers based on their road winless streak that dates to July 2014 plus the Reign’s unbeaten mark all-time at Memorial Stadium. The Reign will be without Bev Yanez who has a hip strain while Breakers’ forward Stephanie McCaffrey is questionable with a hip strain.

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Thursday

Washington Spirit (8-5-4) at FC Kansas City (8-6-4)
8:00 pm EDT, Swope Soccer Village
Watch: Youtube
Series: tied, 3-3-1

Points of Interest: The Spirit need one more point to secure the final playoff spot and would love to get it here before going to Portland on Sunday for a battle against the only team than can catch them. They also know that if they keep winning it will mean a home playoff game. FCKC is still in the running to host a semi but must get at least a draw here to keep that hope alive. If they wind up on the road for their playoff game, this will be the last time Lauren Holiday plays for the team in Kansas City. There is also speculation that Jen Buczkowski, who has started every match in club history, will retire at the end of the season. Tactically the battle will be to see whether Holiday and the Blues midfield can control the match or of the Spirit can remain organized and find Golden Boot leader Crystal Dunn for clear chances. Shea Groom has been upgraded to probable for Kansas City. She has not played since breaking her ankle in May.

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