It’s Monday again, marking the start of another week of NWSL action, which means it’s power rankings time from ESPN.
Who’s moving up the standings? Who’s struggling to keep pace? Our writers have analyzed the events from Matchday 14 and ranked all 14 teams in the league this week. Let’s jump in.
Last rankings: 1
Next match: Friday, August 8th vs. Utah Royals, 10pm
Kansas City took some time to assert themselves against Louisville, but Michelle Cooper’s precise assist in the 65th minute set up Temwa Chawinga for his ninth goal of the season, keeping him in the hunt for the NWSL Golden Boot alongside Gotham’s Esther Gonzalez. Just seven minutes later, they secured a second goal, completing a strong second-half performance. This marks their seventh consecutive regular-season win, and they haven’t lost since May 2nd, maintaining a 10-point lead at the top of the standings—no easy feat.
Last rankings: 3
Next match: Saturday, August 9th vs. Gotham FC, 12pm (live on ESPN+)
Trinity Rodman made a splash in Sunday’s match, tying the score at 1-1 in the 76th minute. This was his first NWSL match since April 12th, and he netted the game-winner in a thrilling 2-1 triumph over Portland. Rodman’s emotional celebration showcased the significance of this moment for the 23-year-old, now overcoming a lingering back injury. It was a big boost for Washington and their supporters.
Last rankings: 2
Next match: Saturday, August 9th vs. Angel City, 10pm
The Waves took 18 shots in a 0-0 stalemate with North Carolina but only managed two on target. Despite earning nine corner opportunities that yielded no results, ending the weekend with four of the seven NWSL matches resulting in draws isn’t the worst outcome. They now head home to face their SoCal rivals, Angel City.
Last rankings: 5
Next match: Saturday, August 9th vs. Orlando Pride, 7:30pm
Orlando faced a tough match against the Utah Royals, struggling after conceding an early goal from Mina Tanaka. However, a late equalizer from Prisca Chilufya helped them secure a point and finish the weekend in second place, especially with some key Brazilian players missing as Malta led her national team to a title win.
Last rankings: 7
Next match: Sunday, August 10th vs. Portland Thorns, 4pm
Jess Fishlock opened the scoring for Seattle in a 2-0 victory over Angel City, marking a standout performance for the Welsh player in a significant international tournament. The 38-year-old showcased her skills, but 25-year-old US goalkeeper Claudia Dickey was the real star of the match with six crucial saves to keep Angel City at bay.
Last rankings: 8
Next match: Sunday, August 10th vs. Seattle Reign, 4pm
Jesse Fleming was instrumental for Washington, showing skill and speed in midfield, but fans were left disappointed when Rodman scored the deciding goal in injury time during his comeback match.
1:10
Trinity Rodman leads the Spirit past Thorns FC with a late winner.
The Washington Spirit triumphed over Portland thanks to a last-minute goal from Trinity Rodman.
Last rankings: 9
Next match: Friday, August 8th vs. Houston Dash, 8pm
Courage faced a strong squad at home but managed to hold San Diego to a 0-0 draw. As the second half of the season begins, they remain just outside the playoff spots, hoping to gain some momentum.
Last rankings: 6
Next match: Saturday, August 9th vs. Orlando Pride, 7:30pm
Louisville held off a formidable Kansas City team for 65 minutes, but once Chawinga scored, they struggled to recover, ending the match with just one shot on target.
Last rankings: 4
Next match: Saturday, August 9th vs. Washington Spirit, 12pm (live on ESPN+)
Gotham missed several key players in a 1-1 draw against Chicago, including NWSL top scorer Gonzalez. German goalkeeper Anne Catlin Berger made several vital saves to keep the match competitive despite being outshot.
Last rankings: 11
Next match: Saturday, August 9th vs. San Diego Wave, 10pm
Although they outshot Seattle 6-2 in terms of on-target shots, Angel City still faced a loss. On a positive note, Jun Endo returned to the pitch after a long recovery from an ACL injury, but they now must regroup after their fifth loss in six regular season matches.
Last rankings: 10
Next match: Sunday, August 10th vs. Chicago Red Stars, 2pm
Bay FC fans had high hopes for a better outcome than the 2-2 draw with the Dash, leading twice but allowing Houston to equalize each time.
Last rankings: 13
Next match: Sunday, August 10th vs. Bay FC, 2pm
Chicago lucked out with Gonzalez’s presence in the lineup, managing a 1-1 draw against Gotham thanks to Aly Schlegel’s equalizer in the second half. This result may galvanize the team as they push forward in the season.
Last rankings: 12
Next match: Friday, August 8th vs. NC Courage, 8pm
Houston held strong in California, pulling off a 2-2 draw against Bay FC after battling back from behind twice. Campbell had an impressive performance, and Kikivan Zanten scored his first goal for the Dash, but they need more consistency to push for playoff spots. Their next match is against North Carolina.
Last rankings: 14
Next match: Friday, August 8th vs. KC Current, 10pm
In a tense match in Florida, the Royals performed admirably, especially with Tanaka’s early goal. However, a late equalizer from Chilufya forced Utah to settle for a tie as they navigated their first match since drafting Ally Sentnor.
Fan Take: This week’s rankings reveal the fierce competition in the NWSL and the challenges teams face as they head towards the playoffs. As stars like Trinity Rodman return to form, fans can expect thrilling matches that not only elevate the league but also inspire future generations of soccer players.
