“There comes a time when we have to understand that the time has come. I am very calm about this, because I am very optimistic about the development that we are having in relation to young athletes,” Marta Silva sent this heartfelt message to the soccer world while deciding to hang up her boots. Last year’s Olympics became the last place on earth where fans witnessed Silva’s aura in a Brazil Jersey. 

But do you think she will never play soccer in her life? Well, the answer has been revealed. The biggest question facing the soccer world is her participation in the NWSL Challenge Cup.’ The NWSL Cup is set to start on March 7, 2025. So, the question above is taking center stage.

Will Marta Silva play in the NWSL Challenge Cup? 

Hey, Soccer world, there is no point in stretching your excitement. If you ask the same question about whether the greatest female soccer player will play in the NWSL Challenge Cup, or not, the Olympics.com already answered that. Confused? If you take a look at her contract with the NWSL Cup challenge team, Orlando Pride, it is clearly written that she has a contract extension till 2026.

So, our favorite, Silva, will play in this year’s NWSL Challenge Cup. But let’s not forget that she will only be playing for the NWSL and not ‘any’ other league or tournament. When she signed the contract extension (till 2026) on January 9, Marta Silva showed her excitement for the 2025 NWSL Challenge Cup.

Silva had said, “Personally, it also means a lot to me that I will reach 10 seasons as an Orlando Pride player. A special number for me as I have worn the No. 10 jersey most of my career. I can’t wait for the season to start.” So, buckle up, guys. Looks like it’s gonna be a long night for the Washington Spirit on March 7. 

This must remind you of the NWSL Championship final between the Orlando Pride and Washington Spirit. The way the Orlando Pride brought home their first major soccer championship was nothing short of amazing. 

The Orlando Pride’s NWSL Championship victory last year against the Washington Spirit 

It was the first time in franchise history the Orlando Pride reached the Championship title. The iconic No. 10 was waiting for her game. She has been the constant for the Orlando club since 2017. Whether the lineup changes or trades happen, Marta Silva remained a strong pillar for the Pride club. And that’s why last year’s (November 2024) victory over the Washington Spirit was mesmerizing.

In that game, Angelina got control of the ball just after halftime. As she passed it onto Barbra Banda, she cracked a gap through the defender and scored a Championship goal helping Marta Silva’s Pride to win the NWSL championship with a 1-0 final score. 

People will remember that game as the March 7 matchup will be between the same opponents. Clearly, this will be Marta Silva’s second-last year with the club. But as per her excitement, expertise and experience, Marta Silva will kill it in this year’s NWSL Challenge Cup.

The league will post the lineups for the game before the matchup. Let’s see what happens in the upcoming match and Marta Silva’s first game of the season.