NWSL Power Rankings After Matchday 15
As another week of NWSL matches concludes, it’s time for ESPN to unveil its latest Power Rankings, evaluating the performance of all 14 teams after Matchday 15. The rankings reflect the highs and lows witnessed over the weekend, with some teams surging forward and others struggling to keep up. Here’s a summary of how each team fared this week:
Team Rankings
1. Kansas City Current
Current Position: 1
Upcoming Fixture: Saturday, August 16, against Orlando Pride at 4 p.m. ET
Despite not showcasing their best form during a recent road trip to Utah, Kansas City secured a narrow 1-0 victory courtesy of Temwa Chawinga’s late goal. This win marked their impressive 13th triumph in 15 matches this season, thanks to a vital contribution from Chawinga, who excelled once again. The match was further highlighted by Ally Sentnor facing her former team just days after being traded from Salt Lake City.
2. Washington Spirit
Current Position: 2
Upcoming Fixture: Friday, August 15, against Racing Louisville at 8 p.m. ET
The Spirit encountered a setback during their away game, ending in a frustrating 0-0 stalemate against Gotham. Playing against ten players following Geyse’s dismissal early on, Washington managed to dominate possession but failed to convert their chances. On a positive note, U.S. national team star Trinity Rodman marked her return from injury by appearing for 40 minutes.
3. Orlando Pride
Current Position: 3
Upcoming Fixture: Saturday, August 16, against Bay FC at 10 p.m. ET
In a disappointing result, Orlando could only muster a 1-1 draw with Racing Louisville in front of their home fans. After missing two penalties, they allowed Louisville to equalize just before halftime, and this missed opportunity widened the gap between them and the league-leading Current to 12 points.
4. San Diego Wave
Current Position: 4
Upcoming Fixture: Saturday, August 16, against North Carolina Courage at 7:30 p.m. ET
In Southern California, a dramatic finish saw the Wave draw 1-1 against Angel City, with goals coming late in the game. Although this expanded their unbeaten streak to four matches, their attacking effectiveness remains inconsistent, needing improvement following several matches with low expected goals.
5. Portland Thorns
Current Position: 5
Upcoming Fixture: Monday, August 18, against Chicago Stars FC at 10 p.m. ET
Portland showcased their offensive prowess, finding back of the net four times to outgun Seattle Reign FC 4-2. This win, characterized by strong teamwork, illustrates their current form, as they’ve secured three victories in their last four outings.
6. Seattle Reign FC
Current Position: 6
Upcoming Fixture: Friday, August 15, against Washington Spirit at 8 p.m. ET
After claiming an early lead, Seattle fell to the Thorns, resulting in a 4-2 defeat that halted their unbeaten streak. Despite Jessica Fishlock’s goal giving them hope, they couldn’t maintain momentum against a determined Portland side.
7. Racing Louisville
Current Position: 7
Upcoming Fixture: Sunday, August 17, against Houston Dash at 4 p.m. ET
The standout performance by goalkeeper Jordyn Bloomer, who saved two penalties, proved crucial in leveling a challenging match against Orlando. Their resilience on the road awarded them a valuable point and showcased promising aspects of their game.
8. NJ/NY Gotham FC
Current Position: 8
Upcoming Fixture: Saturday, August 16, against Portland Thorns at 7:30 p.m. ET
Gotham extended their unbeaten streak from their recent home game against Washington to four matches despite their deadlocked scoreline. The red card for Geyse early on altered the game’s dynamics, limiting Gotham’s ability to take charge.
9. North Carolina Courage
Current Position: 9
Upcoming Fixture: Friday, August 15, against Utah Royals at 10 p.m. ET
The Courage faced off against a strong San Diego team, managing to draw 0-0. While difficult to secure points in a competitive match, they must rebound quickly as the second half of the season has begun, with playoff aspirations still in reach.
10. Houston Dash
Current Position: 10
Upcoming Fixture: Monday, August 18, against Seattle Reign FC at 10 p.m. ET
In a pivotal moment, the Dash earned their first home victory since April against the Courage, capitalizing on a goal from Sophie Schmidt in stoppage time. This result should foster confidence as they adapt under new management following a coaching change.
11. Angel City FC
Current Position: 11
Upcoming Fixture: Saturday, August 16, against San Diego Wave at 10 p.m. ET
Angel City managed to salvage a late equalizer in their 1-1 away draw, showcasing their grit. Although their attack has struggled lately, the team has demonstrated resilience defensively but must turn draws into wins for significant improvement.
12. Bay FC
Current Position: 12
Upcoming Fixture: Sunday, August 17, against Gotham FC at 4 p.m. ET
Bay FC performed well against Chicago but was ultimately left frustrated with a 1-1 draw. They’ve shown potential but need to secure wins to stay competitive for playoff spots.
13. Chicago Stars FC
Current Position: 13
Upcoming Fixture: Friday, August 15, against Angel City FC at 10 p.m. ET
Chicago continues to struggle, with their latest draw against Bay FC evidencing their ongoing challenges. Although Shea Groom was a bright spot, the team needs significant improvements if they hope to compete effectively.
14. Utah Royals
Current Position: 14
Upcoming Fixture: Friday, August 15, against Kansas City Current at 10 p.m. ET
The Royals faced Kansas City without securing a goal for the second time this season, struggling to find form in their ongoing quest for just their second victory. Their determination will be tested as they continue their search for success.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the latest rankings reflect a highly competitive league where teams are navigating their strengths and weaknesses amidst mounting pressure as the season progresses. Can anyone challenge the dominance of the Kansas City Current as they continue their impressive march toward the playoffs?
