Portland Thorns forward Deyna Castellanos says she did not play for Venezuela’s national team in a pair of recent games because of concerns she might not be able to return to the United States.

The National Women’s Soccer League, its players union and the Orlando Pride and Gotham FC have denounced reports of “hateful language” directed at Pride forward Barbra Banda.

Barbra Banda scored in the 37th minute and the Orlando Pride beat the Washington Spirit 1-0 to win their first National Women’s Soccer League championship.

The National Women’s Soccer League and its players have reached a deal on a new collective bargaining agreement that eliminates the draft, guarantees all contracts, provides for parental leave and childcare benefits and promises more money to players.

The Orlando Pride of the National Women’s Soccer League have acquired Zambian forward Barbra Banda for a club-record transfer fee.

This year's Women's World Cup featured eight nations making their tournament debut.