The Thorns beat the Courage 1-0 on Friday night and locked up a playoff spot.
Marie Müller scored the only goal in the 60th minute at Providence Park.
The first half ended 0-0. The goal came after the break and decided the night.
Portland moved to 47 points and sixth place in the NWSL standings.
Before the game, one preview said it best: if Portland won, they were in.
The Thorns won without star striker Sophia Wilson, who served a two-match ban.
Pietra Tordin has eight goals and nine assists and is chasing league history.
Ashley Sanchez scored 20 goals this season, tying the NWSL single-season record.
North Carolina lost five of its last six games and stayed on 42 points in ninth.
The clubs share a long playoff history. Friday added another tense chapter.
Portland travels to Houston next. Carolina hosts Denver Summit on November 1.
The Courage must win their finale and get help elsewhere to reach the playoffs.
Get the full breakdown, key numbers, and what happens next.
Read on Rive News