On this episode, Phuoc Nguyen (Fook Win) and Melina Gaspar discuss all things Portland Thorns.

- Match recap of Portland Thorns' 1-1 draw at Gotham FC

- Defensive shape improvements

- Bench issues? Robert Vilahamn has only used four total subs the past two matches

- Zero minutes for Reyna Reyes, Reilyn Turner, and Marie Müller

- Concerns key players could be leaving soon?

- The Pietra Tordin 'Conundrum' - Is her versatility helping or hurting her/team?

- Melina's Corner: Jessie Fleming masterclass and a lot of positives from M.A. Vignola, Carolyn Calzada and the backline

- Washington Spirit preview

- Transfer Window's major priority and what to expect

In the first half of the episode, Phuoc and Melina discuss the following:

- Match recap of Portland Thorns' 1-0 win over Orlando Pride

- Postgame comments from Robert Vilahamn and Nick Cushing

- The identity of PTFC: Counterattacking Football

- Where the heck is Reyna Reyes? Why her absence doesn't make any sense even after hearing the initial responses

- Updates on Reilyn Turner, Morgan Weaver, Marie Müller, and Isa Obaze

- Melina's Corner featuring a masterclass from Jessie Fleming, Pietra Tordin, and major improvements from Nina Nijstad.

In the final half, Anumita Jain of All For XI and The IX joins us to preview the Gotham FC super-clash.

- How has Gotham been so dominant?

- Is there a concern about their future with the amount of young players being sent away for veterans?

- Is the 2-2 result in the first matchup a precursor to this matchup?

- One player from backline, midfield, and frontline to watch

- What metrics/stats will determine the outcome of this game?

- Does Portland having Caiya Hanks and Morgan Weaver back make this a more even affair?

The Portland Thorns are coming off a thrilling 2-1 win over Orlando Pride including a GOLAZO from Deyna Castellanos and the epic return from Caiya Hanks with her 96th minute game-winner.

Co-hosts Phuoc Nguyen (Fook Win) and Melina Gaspar cover it all including:

- Match Recap

- Why the three points picked up aren't exactly a recipe for success, especially if you look at the statistics and metrics

- Sam Hiatt and Reyna Reyes omissions and what it means moving forward

- Meghan Klingenberg honored and Tobin Heath is next

- Melina's Corner with a lot of defensive issues still remaining

- What to do about the 10 position moving forward?

- Denver Summit FC match preview

On this episode, co-hosts Phuoc Nguyen (Fook Win) and Melina Gaspar discuss it all:

- USWNT midfielder Olivia Moultrie's heartbreaking ACL injury

- What options the team has in her absence

- The good, bad, and the ugly in 4-3 win over Boston Legacy

- The defensive issues and why it won't be going away anytime soon

- Does Robert Vilahamn deserve more resources from the front office?

- Why President/GM Jeff Agoos deserves credit for the frontline, but also needs to take responsibility for the state of the backline

- A potential formation change with a new role for Reyna Reyes

- Orlando Pride matchup preview with some problematic stats for PTFC

BONUS: Melina shows off her Spider-Man: Brand New Day pin

Phuoc Nguyen and Melina Gaspar are joined by Eric Morgan and Evan Davis of the Expected Own Goals podcast to talk the Portland Thorns' brutal 1-5 loss at Utah Royals, the unclear identity under Robert Vilahamn, alarming metrics that could spell doom, Jeff Agoos' track record as president and GM, and much more.

In the second half, Jackie Contreras of the Blazing Musket joins us to preview the match at Boston Legacy.

Melina Gaspar reviews the film in the thrilling 2-2 draw vs Gotham FC, issues that need to be fixed, and what stood out most.

The duo also discuss the road and defensive woes the Portland Thorns are currently facing, the return of Morgan Weaver, and much more.

In the second half, Phuoc Nguyen talks with Royal Riot's Sean Moran to preview the Utah Royals matchup.

On this episode, Melina's corner shows game footage of the ways Denver Summit FC exploited the Portland Thorns.

The duo discuss the continuing issues on the road and closing at games (six goals allowed in the last 15 minutes - second most in NWSL).

In the second half, Anumita Jain of All For XI, The IX, and Equalizer Soccer joins us to talk all things Gotham FC including: the historic defense, Sam Kerr, Denise O'Sullivan, injuries and early adversity, and gives insight into PTFC's transfer needs.

On this episode, we are joined by Leo Baudhuin from the Willamette Week to discuss the contract extensions for Jessie Fleming and Pietra Tordin, signing of Nina Nijstad from PSV, Lindsey Heaps reunion, and Cascadia Derby woes.

In the second half, Matt Pollard of Burgundy Wave joins us to preview the Portland Thorns at Denver Summit FC match. He discusses the historic support the team has found from Colorado, Lindsey Heaps potential impact, the leadership of Janine Sonis, and the keys to the match.

On this episode, Melina conducts a film study from the Portland Thorns 4-0 demolition of Racing Louisville.

Phuoc speaks with Sounder at Heart's (Ride of the Valkyries) Steve Voght to preview the Cascadia Derby and the best rivalry in all of women's sports: Portland Thorns vs Seattle Reign.

And lastly, the duo discuss the signing of PSV midfielder Nina Nijstad and the reported $500k-$1 million transfer fee.

On this episode, the duo and co-hosts Phuoc Nguyen (Fook Win) and Melina Gaspar discuss the upcoming summer transfer window, sharing their top targets and priorities.

In the second half of the podcast, Brendan Devine of Butchertown Rundown joins us to preview the Racing Louisville matchup and the return of NWSL play.

The Portland Thorns have been one of the early surprises of the 2026 NWSL season.

However, is everything perfect? Are they expected the favorites to win the shield and championship? Not so fast...

Co-hosts Phuoc Nguyen (Fook Win) and Melina Gaspar bring out the report cards for the goalkeepers, backline, midfielders, frontline, coaching staff, and front office & ownership.

Which group has shined? Who still has a lot of work to do? Find out.

On this episode, we are joined by Sean Moran of the Royal Riot podcast to preview the clash of the titans, No. 2 Portland Thorns vs No. 1 Utah Royals.

How have URFC become the best story in the NWSL? We discuss it all. Also we preview the game and which players and matchups will determine the outcome.

Which team will go into the international break the top team in the National Women's Soccer League?

In the last half of the podcast, Melina Gaspar takes you on a film study quest to review how Kansas City Current took down PTFC 3-1.

Portland Fire coverage? With the NWSL break coming up, we will be covering the incredible start to the expansion side's WNBA season in June and beyond.

On this episode, Phuoc preview the Portland Thorns at Kansas City Current matchup with KC Soccer Journal's managing editor, Thad Bell.

In Melina Corner's, her film review covers the keys to the 2-0 win over Bay FC!

In Melina's corner, her film session covers the entirety of the 0-0 draw versus Angel City FC!

The Portland Fire earned their first ever win off a buzzer-beater from Sarah Ashlee Barker - an upset 98-96 victory over New York Liberty. We'll be returning with our segment on the next episode.

The Portland Thorns are coming off their second loss of the season, this time a 1-3 road loss to Racing Louisville.

Phuoc Nguyen and Melina discuss what's missing in the midfield, slow second half starts, if the metrics/statistics are finally catching up to the team, and summer transfer window priorities.

In the last half of the show, Trebor Tracy of Angels on Parade previews the matchup between Angel City FC and Portland Thorns.

To preview the matchup on this episode of The Rose City Breakdown, we are joined by Butchertown Rundown's Brendan Devine.

We discuss the early struggles the team is facing, Bev Yanez's impact on young talent, the frontline of Emma Sears, Sarah Weber, and Kayla Fischer, key matchups, and much more.

Does Louisville have an answer for Sophia Wilson, Pietra Tordin, Reilyn Turner, and Olivia Moultrie?

Read and Listen to their team's work at Butchertown Rundown: https://substack.com/@butchertownrundown?utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-page

https://bsky.app/profile/brendan-devine.bsky.social

The Portland Thorns are now four points clear in first place of the NWSL table. Melina Gaspar and I share our thoughts of the wins over San Diego Wave 2-0 and Chicago Stars 2-0.

Who stood out and what lingering concerns are there? In Melina's corner, she highlights the standout play of Jessie Fleming and a few defensive details that needs to improve.

The WNBA is finally back?

For the first time since 2002, the Portland Fire are returning.

Matt Bagley of Portland Supporter (portlandsupporter.com) and Sports Illustrated discusses the expectations for the team, potential starting five, which players to look out for, and so much more.

https://bsky.app/profile/bagleysports.bsky.social

Melina is back better than ever with a new microphone and Phuoc is also there.

On this episode, the duo discuss the key stats that determined the 2-1 road win for Portland Thorns over Angel City FC, Carolyn Calzada's strong debut, and much more.

They also react to Soph Wilson's first goal since her return and why it changes so much moving forward for the team.

Are you ready for the clash of the NWSL titans? Phuoc spoke to SanDiego.Futbol & All For XI writer Abe Zepeda, to preview the matchup between the No. 1 San Diego Wave coming into to Providence Park against No. 2 PTFC.

Phuoc Nguyen and Melina Gaspar are back to discuss the Portland Thorns' early season, who has stood out, lingering concerns, and much more.

Melina's Corner returns with a full film breakdown from the North Carolina Courage match with positives and a few glaring cons.

Also in the first-ever Portland Fire segment, Matt Bagley of Sports Illustrated (Oregon State Beavers) and PDX WNBA coverage at portlandsupporter.com.

He breaks down the current roster, grades for GM Vanja Černivec, what to expect from head coach Alex Sarama, and 2026 season predictions.

The NWSL is finally returning after the long international break.

In the Portland Thorns' first match back, they'll be heading on the road and facing off against one of the biggest surprises in the NWSL, Angel City FC.

I'm honored to be joined by Angels on Parade, Managing Editor Trebor Tracy, to preview this massive game.

In the preview, we discuss ACFC's strong early-season start, breakout stars Kennedy Fuller and Sveindís Jónsdóttir, Mark Parsons in his new role, underrated players, key matchups, and what to expect in this game.

Support Trebor Tracy!

Angels on Parade - angelsonparade.com

Bluesky - trebtracy.bsky.social

Melina Gaspar is back and gives you a closer look at the Portland Thorns' decisive win over KC Current.

In Melina's corner, she breaks down the impact of Olivia Moultrie, Cassandra Bogere, Soph Wilson, and so much more.

To preview the NC Courage matchup, Phuoc Nguyen catches up with The Lion's Pitch to preview the latest matchup. Trevor Knoblich and Katherine Cleary discuss Manaka's return, how dangerous the North Carolina midfield could be, which matchups will decide the outcome, and much more.

Be sure to listen to their wonderful podcast!

https://www.lionspitch.com/podcast-archive/

Melina breaks down what went wrong tactically and what metrics stood out the most.

Phuoc speaks to Thad Bell of the KC Soccer Journal to preview the Saturday matchup between the two sides.

They discuss the Chris Armas hire, trade of Claire Hutton, Temwa Chawinga's absence, early season struggles, key matchups and what type of match to expect.

In this episode, Melina Gaspar breaks down footage from the craziest Cascadia Derby ever. She focuses on Jessie Fleming's importance in attack and defense.

She also discusses the six position moving forward without Cassandra Bogere (suspension).

In the second half of the episode, Phuoc Nguyen speaks to Abe Zededa of All For XI and SanDiego.Futbol to preview the Portland Thorns at San Diego Wave midweek matchup.

On this episode we discuss the early season start for SDW, the addition of Catarina Macario, key matchups that will determine the game, and much more.

You can get all episodes of The Rose City Breakdown on YouTube, Apple, Spotify, RSS, and everywhere you find podcasts.

Pietra Tordin chipped in two goal contributions, Reilyn Turner opened up her scoring account, and the Rose City recorded yet another shutout.

Jessie Fleming, Morgan Messner, Sam Hiatt, and Isa Obaze have put on a masterclass and now have back-to-back shutouts.

Leo Baudhuin of the Willamette Week joins me to break it all down.

Photographer: Kelsey Baker

Happy Cascadia Derby week!

Portland Thorns vs Seattle Reign is widely-regarded as one of, if not the best rivalry in all of women's sports.

Although these special matches are typically played later in the NWSL season, it is now the home opener for the Thorns - Friday at 5 p.m. PT on Prime Video.

Phuoc and Melina break down the Portland Thorns opening day upset at Audi Field versus Washington Spirit, and preview the massive Cascadia matchup against Seattle Reign.

The duo discuss the impact of Jessie Fleming, M.A. Vignola, and Reyna Reyes. Also, give praise to Sarah Lowdon's work during the offseason and preseason to get the team ready.

In Robert Vilahamn's debut nothing was going to stop him for being there for his time either, that's class and a powerful first impression, that will leave a lasting memory for many folks.

And finally, our new segment... Melina's Corner is finally out where she shows clips to analyze tactics and key metrics for every match.

*For those listening it to on Audio, please go see it on YouTube for full film breakdown and clips she uses.

Who's our guest this week on the podcast?

To preview the PNW clash, Sounder at Heart's Steve Voght joins us to preview the matchup.

In our discussion, he breaks down the Reign's opening 2-1 road win over Orlando Pride, who will step up in the goalscoring department, underrated players to watch out for, what type of game to expect, and the key matchups that will determine the outcome of the derby.

To preview the Portland Thorns' 2026 season, we are joined by Expected Own Goals' (xOG) Evan Davis and Eric Morgan - two of the absolute best for women's soccer coverage.

The xOG duo are brilliant and primarily focus on tactics and analytics in their coverage.

Without further ado... The episode you've all been waiting for.

Episode Summary: Phuoc, Evan, and Eric discuss the Portland Thorns' 2026 season projection, the offseason, Soph Wilson's return, the timing of the Rob Vilahamn hire, question marks at CB and the six, metrics that should worry & provide hope, and preview the opener against Washington Spirit.

*Editor's Note: Apologies for the audio quality at certain parts - trying a brand new computer for podcasts at the moment

The Rose City Breakdown's Phuoc Nguyen and Melina Gaspar discuss the hire, the timing, and how Jeff Agoos failed his first true test as GM. The duo also provides a grade for the hire and a full assessment of why it doesn't meet the standards at the moment.

- Was the offseason a failure?

- Has ownership done enough or are they falling behind?

- Where is the head coaching search at? Without a hire in place, is this a massive concern heading into the season?

- Does a direct replacement at defensive for Sam Coffey take precedent as the biggest need?

- CB ignored in the offseason

- Preseason opener starts off with many issues from 2025

- Injury updates