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Angel City FC to Clinch Playoff Berth on Saturday

The club seeks a postseason spot with a victory over Bay FC at home.

Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Soccer

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Angel City FC looks to secure a postseason berth this Saturday with a crucial home match against Bay FC. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Angel City FC enters its Saturday match against Bay FC looking to secure a berth in the NWSL playoffs. With 46 points and an eight-game unbeaten streak, the team is well-positioned to repeat its 2023 postseason appearance.

Why it matters

Securing a playoff spot would validate the team's significant turnaround this season following a challenging spring stretch. A win guarantees advancement, while a draw leaves the club's fate dependent on other games occurring on Friday.

Angel City FC holds a 13-8-7 record with 46 points, a marked improvement over its 2023 performance of 8-7-7 and 31 points. The team enters the matchup on an eight-game unbeaten streak, boasting a 6-0-2 record during that span.

The players

Angel City FC

An NWSL professional soccer club based in Los Angeles that competes at BMO Stadium.

Leif Smerud

The current interim coach of Angel City FC who has led the team to an eight-game unbeaten streak.

Bay FC

An NWSL professional soccer team that currently holds a 7-15-6 record.

Alex Straus

The coach who served at the start of the 2026 season for Angel City FC.

The details

Interim coach Leif Smerud has guided the team through a successful stretch since taking over for Alex Straus, who coached at the start of the 2026 season. Angel City FC previously defeated Bay FC 3-1 during their meeting on March 21.

Timeline

  1. March 21: Angel City defeated Bay FC 3-1.

  2. April and May: Angel City experienced a five-game winless stretch.

  3. 2023: Angel City made the NWSL playoffs.

  4. Friday: Games occur that impact playoff clinching scenarios.

  5. Saturday: Angel City plays Bay FC.

Season Trajectory

The club is attempting to replicate its 2023 NWSL playoff qualification by maintaining a strong performance record under interim leadership. This potential postseason run follows a volatile season that saw the team rebound from a winless stretch in April and May.

A win on Saturday ensures a playoff spot for Angel City, while a draw forces the team to rely on results from Friday's matches. The match outcome directly determines whether the club extends its season beyond the regular schedule.

The takeaway

Maintaining the current unbeaten momentum is critical for the team to avoid relying on external match results. Players will need to replicate their offensive performance from the March 21 victory to secure a guaranteed postseason position.

Further reading

For more on the league standings, visit Soccer.

Live Poll

Does your local professional team making the playoffs improve your sense of community pride?