Ella Hayes scored early in the second half to send Racing Louisville into the final. NVSL place in the playoffs by beating visiting Bay FC 1-0 on the final day of the regular season on Sunday.
Racing Louisville, which secured its first playoff berth in franchise history, is on a five-game unbeaten streak heading into the postseason, although their two previous matches ended in draws. Louisville needed a win to stay in the top eight and ahead of the North Carolina Courage, who also won their final game of the season, in the race for the playoffs.
Hayes scored in the 48th minute after an assist from Katie O'Kane. Bay finished the season without a win in 15 matches.
Kansas City Current finished first in the regular season standings after dominating the league. They finished with 65 points, 21 points ahead of second-place Washington Spirit.
The quarter-finals of the playoffs will take place from November 7 to 9.
NWSL Quarterfinals (November 7–9)
Kansas City Current (1) — Gotham (8)
Washington Spirit (2) — Racing Louisville (7)
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Portland Thorns (3) – San Diego Wave (6)
Orlando Pride (4) – Seattle Rain (5)
