National Women’s Soccer League Week Summary
As another week of National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) action concludes, ESPN has released its latest Power Rankings, highlighting the shifts among the league’s 14 teams after Matchday 13. Who is on the rise, and who is struggling? Let’s break it down.
Power Rankings
Ranked Number One: Kansas City Current
They maintained their position at the top of the standings with a well-fought victory over Angel City. Despite being outshot 13-3, Kansas City’s defense held strong, thanks in part to Lorena’s crucial penalty save against Alyssa Thompson. In the 69th minute, Bia Zaneratto scored the decisive goal, ensuring Kansas City stays ahead with an eight-point margin over the second-place team. Next match: Friday, August 1, against Racing Louisville at 8 p.m. ET.
Ranked Second: San Diego Wave
San Diego played to a 0-0 draw against Washington Spirit, marking another strong performance despite not securing a win. The Wave controlled the match but could not capitalize on their opportunities, with Aubrey Kingsbury making six pivotal saves for the Spirit. San Diego’s commendable record continues with only one loss in their last nine games. Next match: Saturday, August 2, facing NC Courage at 7:30 p.m. ET.
Ranked Third: Orlando Pride
Orlando faced setbacks against Racing Louisville, losing 2-0 and experiencing their fourth defeat this season. The Pride fell victim to two set-piece goals, with key players like Jordyn Bloomer stepping up for Louisville. Although they remain second in the rankings, the team is looking to bounce back during the break. Next match: Friday, August 1, against Chicago Stars at 8 p.m. ET.
Ranked Fourth: Seattle Reign
In a commanding performance against Utah Royals, Seattle won 4-1, with veteran Ji So-Yun making a mark by scoring shortly after the match’s start. Emeri Adames also shone with two goals, demonstrating the Reign’s blend of experienced and youthful talent as they head into the break with three wins in their last five matches. Next match: Sunday, August 3, against Portland at 12:30 p.m. ET.
Ranked Fifth: North Carolina Courage
After initially falling behind in their match against Houston, the Courage showcased their resilience by coming back to win 2-1. Jaedyn Shaw scored the equalizer, while Hannah Betfort netted the winner. This victory marks their third in five matches as they improve their standing. Next match: Saturday, August 2, contesting against Houston at 10 p.m. ET.
Ranked Sixth: Racing Louisville
Racing Louisville took down Orlando in a well-executed match, with captain Arin Wright contributing significantly with a header from a corner set piece. Notably, their recent form has seen them find a rhythm, winning half of their six games recently. Next match: Friday, August 1, against Angel City at 10:30 p.m. ET.
Ranked Seventh: Washington Spirit
In their match against San Diego, the Spirit’s defense was on full display, with Kingsbury’s saves preventing a loss and showcasing the team’s potential. They’ll strive to build on this resilient outing during their upcoming match. Next match: Sunday, August 3, against Portland at 12:30 p.m. ET.
Ranked Eighth: Chicago Red Stars
Chicago gave Portland a challenge but ultimately came away with a narrow 1-0 loss. With an even split in possession and opportunities, Chicago will look to sharpen their performance in their next outing. Next match: Sunday, August 3, hosting Orlando Pride at 6 p.m. ET.
Ranked Ninth: Bay FC
Bay FC faced Gotham in a tightly contested match but could not secure a win, sending them into the break seeking solutions after a disappointing round. Next match: Friday, August 1, visiting Seattle Reign at 10:30 p.m. ET.
Ranked Tenth: Angel City FC
Despite their solid first half against Kansas City, Angel City could not convert opportunities into goals, leading to another loss. After this disappointing stretch of four losses in five matches, improvements are needed before their next game. Next match: Friday, August 1, against Kansas City at 8 p.m. ET.
Ranked Eleventh: Utah Royals
Utah suffered their second consecutive heavy loss, falling to Seattle 4-1, adding to a dismal season record. With challenges compounded as they head into the summer break, they need to focus on regrouping. Next match: Sunday, August 3, against Orlando at 6 p.m. ET.
Ranked Twelfth: Portland Thorns
Portland continues to show prowess, exhibiting a strong performance that resulted in a narrow victory over Chicago. In particular, Sam Coffey stood out with a key assist in the match. Next match: Saturday, August 2, against San Diego at 7:30 p.m. ET.
Ranked Thirteenth: Gotham FC
Struggling for form, Gotham looks to address their defeats as they maintain hope for a turnaround after another challenging round of matches. Next match: Friday, August 1, at home against Angel City at 8 p.m. ET.
Ranked Fourteenth: NC Courage
Sitting at the bottom of the rankings, the Courage must find a path forward after another loss underscored their challenges this season. With opportunities for redemption on the horizon, they’ll look to capitalize on their next games. Next match: Saturday, August 2, against Houston at 10 p.m. ET.
