NWSL Power Rankings: A Shift in the Balance of Power
After Matchday 25, the NWSL landscape has undergone a significant transformation. The top teams have solidified their positions, while others are fighting for playoff spots. Our power rankings reflect the latest developments, taking into account key statistics, recent performance, and expert observations.
Top Teams Consolidate Their Positions
- Kansas City Current: With a convincing 4-1 win over San Diego Wave, Kansas City has cemented its position at the top. Temwa Chawinga’s goal against the Wave marked her 20th goal of the season, a new NWSL record.
- Orlando Pride: Despite back-to-back losses, Orlando remains in second place. However, the team’s recent performances have raised concerns about its ability to maintain its position.
- Washington Spirit: A 2-0 win over Chicago Red Stars has propelled Washington into third place. The team’s strong defense and clinical finishing make it a formidable opponent.
Playoff Contenders Emerge
- NJ/NY Gotham FC: Gotham’s unbeaten run has stretched to seven games, with a 3-1 win over Orlando Pride. The team’s set piece expertise has been a key factor in its success.
- North Carolina Courage: Although North Carolina lost to Bay FC, the team remains in contention for a playoff spot. Its attacking performance, however, has been a concern.
- Portland Thorns: Portland’s 1-0 loss to Louisville has put its playoff hopes in jeopardy. The team’s offense has been pedestrian this season, and it needs to improve quickly.
Expansion Teams Make Their Mark
- Bay FC: Bay’s 1-0 win over North Carolina has kept its playoff hopes alive. The team’s resilience and determination have been impressive in its inaugural season.
- Utah Royals: Utah’s 1-0 win over Angel City FC has given the team a glimmer of hope. Claudia Zornoza’s birthday goal was a highlight of the match.
Teams on the Brink
- Racing Louisville FC: Louisville’s 1-0 win over Portland has kept its playoff hopes alive. The team’s low-scoring affairs have been a hallmark of its season.
- Chicago Red Stars: Chicago’s 2-0 loss to Washington has raised concerns about its playoff prospects. The team’s lack of creativity in attack has been a major issue.
Teams Out of Contention
- Angel City FC: Angel City’s 1-1 draw with Utah has ended its playoff hopes. The team’s lack of progress this season has been disappointing.
- Seattle Reign FC: Seattle’s 2-1 win over Houston has been a rare bright spot in an otherwise dismal season.
- San Diego Wave FC: San Diego’s 4-1 loss to Kansas City has ended its season. The team’s decline from last year’s NWSL Shield winners has been dramatic.
- Houston Dash: Houston’s 2-1 loss to Seattle has highlighted its attacking woes. The team’s lack of creativity in front of goal has been a major concern all season.
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