Angel City outlasts Spirit in high-scoring thriller

Riley Tiernan's late winner caps off 4-3 victory for Angel City

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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In a thrilling National Women's Soccer League match, Angel City FC defeated the Washington Spirit 4-3, with Riley Tiernan scoring the winning goal in the 8th minute of second-half stoppage time. The back-and-forth contest saw both teams trade leads before Tiernan's dramatic late strike secured the victory for Angel City.

Why it matters

This result keeps Angel City in the hunt for a playoff spot in the highly competitive NWSL, while the Spirit missed an opportunity to gain ground in the standings. The match showcased the league's parity and the ability of teams to overcome deficits, providing an exciting spectacle for fans.

The details

Angel City took an early lead through Tiernan's first goal, but the Spirit responded with three unanswered goals to go up 3-1. However, Angel City fought back, scoring twice to level the match before Tiernan's late heroics sealed the victory.

  • The match was played on February 10, 2026.
  • Tiernan scored the opening goal in the first half.
  • The Spirit scored three consecutive goals to take a 3-1 lead.
  • Angel City equalized in the second half before Tiernan's late winner.

The players

Riley Tiernan

A forward for Angel City FC who scored two goals, including the match-winning strike in stoppage time.

Washington Spirit

The professional women's soccer team based in Washington, D.C. that lost a close match to Angel City.

Angel City FC

The professional women's soccer team based in Los Angeles that came from behind to defeat the Washington Spirit.

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What they’re saying

“That was a gutsy performance from our team. We never gave up and kept fighting until the end.”

— Riley Tiernan, Forward, Angel City FC (Instagram)

What’s next

Angel City will look to build on this victory as they continue their push for a playoff spot, while the Spirit will aim to rebound in their next match.

The takeaway

The NWSL's parity was on full display in this thrilling back-and-forth match, showcasing the league's competitiveness and the ability of teams to overcome deficits and secure dramatic late wins.