The Orlando Pride NWSL is set to open their 2026 NWSL season against the Seattle Reign, marking the third consecutive match between the two teams. The Reign drew in their finale and lost an ensuing playoff match against the Pride last year by a combined score of 3-1. The Pride's season ended in a semifinal loss to eventual champion Gotham FC. Orlando didn’t have its top player in striker Barbra Banda, who suffered a season-ending right adductor tendon injury in August. She scored eight goals in her 16 matches. Banda was recently cleared to play, and the season opener could be her return. The match will take place at Inter&Co Stadium in Orlando, Fla. at 1 p.m. on Sunday. The Reign will be without defender Jordyn Bugg, midfielder Sally Menti, and defender Shae Holmes due to injuries. New Reign signing Holly Ward, a Canadian international from the Vancouver Rise FC, hasn’t completed her paperwork and is unable to play Sunday. The Reign had to shake off the strain of a long travel day during their final preseason training session in Orlando. The team boarded their plane for Florida around 6:45 a.m. Friday and didn’t take flight until 1:30 p.m. The team didn’t arrive at their destination until 9 p.m. Reign coach Laura Harvey spoke about the absence of defender Lu Barnes, who retired her 13-year NWSL career last fall. The club captain played in a NWSL-record 252 matches, all with the Reign. The Pride will look to start the season strong, with midfielder Marta out with an excused absence. The team will rely on the leadership of its remaining players to fill the gap left by Marta's absence. The match against the Reign will be a crucial test for the Pride, as they seek to improve on last year's semifinal exit. With Banda potentially returning from injury, the Pride may have a stronger chance of securing a win. The team's performance will be closely watched, as they aim to make a deep run in the playoffs this season. The Pride's fans will be eager to see their team in action, and the match against the Reign is expected to be a thrilling encounter.