**NWSL Power Rankings: Unbeaten Streak Continues**
The latest week of NWSL action has come to a close, and it’s time to assess the league’s 14 teams. Our rankings combine key season statistics, recent performance, computer ratings, and writer observations to provide a comprehensive picture of the league.
**1. Orlando Pride**
Undefeated through 21 games, the Pride have made history with the longest unbeaten streak in league history. They topped Bay FC in California, with Barbra Banda scoring the winning goal. The Pride’s dominance shows no signs of slowing down.
**2. Kansas City Current**
By defeating the Washington Spirit, the Current earned revenge for a previous loss and secured a postseason spot. Their attack remains potent, and new goalkeeper Almuth Schult has been impressive since joining the team in August.
**3. NJ/NY Gotham FC**
Gotham has won five of its last six league games, thanks in part to Yazmeen Ryan’s early goal against Utah. Juan Carlos Amorós’ press continues to be a tactical X factor in the league.
**4. Washington Spirit**
A tough weekend for the Spirit saw them fall 3-0 to Kansas City, and Trinity Rodman leave the match with an “intense back spasm.” Fortunately, it seems the injury is not as severe as initially feared.
**5. Racing Louisville**
Racing left it late, but eventually secured a win against North Carolina with an equalizer in the 79th minute and a game-winning penalty in stoppage time. Bethany Balcer’s continued attacking production will be crucial for Louisville’s postseason hopes.
**6. Bay FC**
Despite ceding most of the ball to Orlando, Bay FC tried to limit the Pride’s quality shots. However, they ultimately fell 1-0 to the unbeaten leaders.
**7. North Carolina Courage**
Kerolin made her first NWSL appearance in 342 days, stepping onto the field in the second half of North Carolina’s 2-1 loss to Louisville. The Brazilian superstar’s return could be a game-changer for the Courage.
**8. Chicago Red Stars**
The Red Stars eked out a 1-0 win over the San Diego Wave, thanks to Ludmila’s early goal. They had to withstand 28 shots to secure the crucial three points.
**9. Portland Thorns**
The Thorns have lost four regular-season games in a row, but their upcoming schedule offers opportunities to secure points and lock in a playoff spot.
**10. Seattle Reign**
The Reign fell to the Houston Dash, despite having 63% possession. Laura Harvey’s team continues to struggle in the final third.
**11. Angel City**
Angel City’s inconsistent attack and poor defense have left them below the playoff line. Until they solidify their backline, it’s hard to see them making a push for the postseason.
**12. San Diego Wave**
The Wave’s loss in Chicago was one of the strangest defeats you’ll ever see. They managed 28 shots to the Red Stars’ nine, but couldn’t score.
**13. Houston Dash**
The Dash finally secured all three points in a single game, topping Seattle 1-0 on Saturday. Yuki Nagasato’s goal was a highlight of the weekend.
**14. Utah Royals**
Utah has now lost three straight, with the latest defeat coming against Gotham on Sunday. They conceded early and couldn’t recover.
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