Another week of NWSL action has concluded, and ESPN’s Power Rankings are here to break it all down. Let’s see who’s soaring and who’s struggling in this week’s edition.
The Kansas City Current remain at the top of the rankings, thanks in no small part to Temwa Chawinga’s electrifying performance. Her blistering pace proved too much for the Orlando Pride’s defense, resulting in a crucial 1-0 victory. One mistake against Chawinga, and you’ll pay the price. The Current’s next match is against the Chicago Stars.
The Orlando Pride, despite a valiant effort, drop slightly to second place following their loss to the Current. While their attacking prowess, particularly with Barbra Banda, was evident, a defensive lapse cost them dearly. They’ll look to bounce back against the Utah Royals.
The San Diego Wave continue their impressive run, climbing to third place after a 1-0 victory over NJ/NY Gotham FC. Their dominance in possession stifled Gotham’s attack, highlighting their tactical prowess. Kimmi Ascanio’s goal sealed the win, and the Wave’s five-game undefeated streak speaks volumes.
NJ/NY Gotham FC falls to fourth after a third consecutive goalless game. Their attacking struggles are a major concern, and they desperately need to find a solution before their next match against the KC Current.
The Portland Thorns round out the top five, securing a convincing 4-1 win against the Houston Dash. Pietra Tordin’s first-ever start was a resounding success, and the Thorns’ high xG per 90 minutes underscores their attacking threat. They’ll next face Bay FC.
The Washington Spirit’s attacking prowess was on full display in a 3-3 draw against the Utah Royals. Despite a high shot count, sloppy defending cost them a win. Casey Krueger’s late goal salvaged a point, but they’ll need to tighten up defensively against the Seattle Reign.
Seattle Reign FC, in seventh, continue their trend of close games, earning a 1-0 victory over Racing Louisville. Their ability to win tight matches is a testament to their resilience. They’ll face the Washington Spirit next.
The North Carolina Courage are showing signs of a significant turnaround, moving up to eighth after a 2-0 win against the Chicago Stars. Denise O’Sullivan’s midfield control and Jaedyn Shaw’s attacking prowess were key to their success. They’ll face the San Diego Wave next.
Angel City FC drops to ninth after a 2-0 loss to Bay FC. Christen Press’s return to the starting lineup didn’t translate into a win, and they’ll need to find their rhythm against Racing Louisville after Savy King’s medical emergency.
Racing Louisville FC sits at tenth, having missed a golden opportunity against the Seattle Reign. Despite outshooting their opponents significantly, they failed to capitalize on their chances. They’ll look to turn things around against Angel City FC.
Bay FC’s impressive 2-0 victory over Angel City pushes them up to eleventh. Their improved defense and clinical finishing were key to their success. They face the Houston Dash in their next match.
The Houston Dash remain in twelfth, suffering a 4-1 defeat to the Portland Thorns. Goalkeeping inconsistencies continue to be a major issue. They’ll face Bay FC.
Utah Royals, in thirteenth, fought hard to earn a 3-3 draw against the Washington Spirit. Mandy McGlynn’s stellar performance in goal, including a penalty save, was a highlight. They’ll play Orlando Pride next.
Finally, the Chicago Stars remain at the bottom of the rankings after a 2-0 loss to North Carolina. Despite Ludmila’s efforts, they couldn’t find the back of the net. They face the KC Current next.
