The National Women’s Soccer League 2025 season has kicked off, and we’re back with the first power rankings of the year. While it’s early days, the opening weekend provided some interesting insights.
The top contenders are performing as expected, but there’s been considerable movement in the mid-tier teams, and some teams at the bottom are facing early challenges.
Orlando’s dominant six-goal victory certainly made a statement, highlighting their strength while raising questions for Chicago Stars FC. Several draws across the league have also led to shifts in this week’s rankings.
As teams outside the top four begin to define their identities, expect more volatility in the rankings and potential surprises as the season progresses.
2025 NWSL Power Rankings
| Rank | Team | Change | Analysis |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Orlando Pride | – | The reigning NWSL Shield and Championship winners began the season impressively, overwhelming their opponents. Barbra Banda’s improved form is a major threat to the league. |
| 2. | Washington Spirit | – | The 2025 Challenge Cup champions are showcasing their squad depth while key players return from injury. New defender Rebeca Bernal is quickly integrating, adding to their options. |
| 3. | Kansas City Current | – | Secured a home win with an early goal from 2024 MVP Temwa Chawinga. Despite the victory, there’s a sense they could have scored more given their attacking play. |
| 4. | NJ/NY Gotham FC | – | Gabi Portilho and Sarah Schupansky made strong debuts as Rose Lavelle and Midge Purce returned to the field. More consistent goal-scoring is needed to solidify their top contender status. |
| 5. | North Carolina Courage | – | Offseason acquisition Jaedyn Shaw is adapting to the Courage’s system. For now, their established tactics are delivering results. |
| 6. | Utah Royals FC | +1 | The Royals had a standout moment with goalkeeper Mandy McGlynn assisting on a long-range goal by Bianca St. Georges, marking a stronger start to the season compared to last year. |
| 7. | Seattle Reign FC | -1 | Their attacking line struggled to get involved, impacting their performance. While showing potential, it wasn’t enough to climb the rankings this week. |
| 8. | Racing Louisville FC | +1 | A positive start, though Louisville aims to translate performances into full three-point victories, something they’ve struggled with since last season. Taylor Flint was key in disrupting Courage’s possession. |
| 9. | Houston Dash | -1 | Despite a loss, the Dash made it difficult for the Spirit and managed to score. Offseason signings are showing promise, but not reflected in this week’s ranking. |
| 10. | Bay FC | – | Questions arise about their ability to sustain performance throughout the season with their current approach. Kiki Pickett’s equalizer against Utah was a highlight. |
| 11. | Angel City FC | +1 | Alyssa Thompson’s dazzling goal and Gisele Thompson’s dynamic play highlight the sisters as a formidable duo for opponents this season. |
| 12. | San Diego Wave FC | +2 | New coach Jonas Eidevall’s tactical plans seem to be resonating with the team. Opportunities for young players are a positive sign of progress. |
| 13. | Portland Thorns FC | -2 | Olivia Moultrie’s goal is a bright spot, but the team still appears to be in a transitional phase under coach Rob Gale, which is concerning. |
| 14. | Chicago Stars FC | -1 | After conceding six goals in a poor performance, Chicago’s struggles are evident. Coaching staff solutions are urgently needed to avoid a difficult season. |
