Bay FC, featuring Nigerian international Asisat Oshoala, drew a record-breaking crowd for a United States women’s professional league match on Saturday, setting a new National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) attendance record of 40,091 fans at Oracle Park. The milestone surpassed the previous high of 35,038, set during Bay FC’s June 8, 2024 game against Chicago.

Despite the historic turnout, Bay FC fell 3-2 to Washington Spirit in a competitive matchup that had significant implications for the league standings. Washington, already on 28 points prior to the game, secured a crucial win to advance their playoff positioning.

Kate Wiesner and Croix Bethune put Washington ahead with goals in the 7th and 39th minutes. Bay FC responded after an own-goal early in the first half by scoring through Racheal Kundananji in the 42nd minute, cutting the deficit to 3-1. Kelli Hubly added a second goal for Bay FC in the 54th minute, bringing the scoreline to 3-2, but the Spirit maintained their lead for the remainder of the match.

Washington goalkeeper Aubrey Kingsbury made five saves, including a critical block on a late attempt by Jordan Silkowitz in the sixth minute of stoppage time, preserving the Spirit’s victory. Gift Monday, introduced in the 67th minute for Washington, contributed to maintaining the team’s momentum down the stretch.

Super Falcons striker and six-time African Footballer of the Year Asisat Oshoala remained an unused substitute for Bay FC. The team, now on 17 points with a 4-8-5 record, continues to chase form in the league as it approaches the latter stages of the season.

The victory elevated Washington Spirit to 31 points and second place in the NWSL standings, overtaking Orlando Pride, who are next in action on August 29, and San Diego Wave FC, scheduled to face Louisville on Sunday.

Saturday’s match highlighted growing fan engagement for women’s professional football in the United States, with Bay FC’s sellout crowd emphasizing the increasing support and visibility of the league.