Overview of Matchday 9

The latest round of National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) action has concluded, leading to adjustments in the Power Rankings. Our team at ESPN has assessed every match, evaluating team performances to compile this week’s standings.

Power Rankings Breakdown

1. Kansas City Current

Previous Ranking: 1
Next Match: Saturday, May 24 vs. Chicago Stars, 7:30 p.m. ET

In a tightly contested matchup against the Orlando Pride, Kansas City emerged victorious with a 1-0 scoreline, courtesy of a swift goal from Temwa Chawinga. The attacker capitalized on a defensive error, highlighting her exceptional speed and striking prowess.

2. Orlando Pride

Previous Ranking: 2
Next Match: Friday, May 23 vs. Utah Royals, 9:30 p.m. ET

Despite putting forth a commendable effort, the Pride fell short against Kansas City. A critical defensive error in the second half sealed their fate, resulting in a string of challenges ahead as they seek to regain form.

3. San Diego Wave

Previous Ranking: 4
Next Match: Sunday, May 25 vs. NC Courage, 10 p.m. ET

Undefeated in their last five matches, the Wave claimed a 1-0 victory over NJ/NY Gotham FC. Their ball control was impressive, achieving 62% possession and limiting the opposition’s attacking chances significantly.

4. NJ/NY Gotham FC

Previous Ranking: 3
Next Match: Saturday, June 7 vs. Bay FC, 7:30 p.m. ET

Gotham’s struggles in attack continued in their recent match. The team has now gone three consecutive games without finding the net, and their last outing against San Diego saw minimal offensive threat, marking a worrying trend.

5. Portland Thorns

Previous Ranking: 5
Next Match: Saturday, June 7 vs. KC Current

Pietra Tordin made an impressive mark with her first start, scoring early to set the pace in a 4-1 triumph over Houston Dash. With robust attacking statistics, Portland stands as a formidable contender, even with their upcoming midweek Champions Cup fixture ahead of their next league match.

6. Washington Spirit

Previous Ranking: 8
Next Match: Friday, May 23 vs. Utah Royals, 10 p.m. ET

Washington showcased offensive quality in their match against the Utah Royals but ultimately settled for a 3-3 draw. Despite 29 shots taken, a last-minute equalizer signaled missed opportunities, particularly in defensive settings.

7. Seattle Reign

Previous Ranking: 10
Next Match: Sunday, May 25 vs. San Diego Wave, 10 p.m. ET

With a narrow 1-0 victory over Racing Louisville, Seattle continues to thrive in tightly contested matches. This match reflected their ability to capitalize on limited chances while maintaining a sturdy defense.

8. North Carolina Courage

Previous Ranking: 12
Next Match: Saturday, May 24 vs. Racing Louisville, 10 p.m. ET

The Courage have been revitalized by recent performances, including a decisive 2-0 win over Chicago Stars. Their attack showcased depth and efficiency, with standout contributions from Jaedyn Shaw and Ashley Sanchez.

9. Angel City FC

Previous Ranking: 9
Next Match: Saturday, May 24 vs. Angel City, 10 p.m. ET

Returning Christen Press marked her first start of the season, but Angel City struggled against Bay FC, losing 2-0. The recent challenges faced by the team seem to have hindered their offensive consistency.

10. Racing Louisville

Previous Ranking: 11
Next Match: Saturday, May 24 vs. Houston Dash, 5 p.m. ET

In a match against Seattle, Racing Louisville recorded an overwhelming 20 shots but only managed a single effort on target. This inefficacy proved costly, resulting in a frustrating home loss.

11. Bay FC

Previous Ranking: 13
Next Match: Saturday, May 24 vs. Bay FC, 5 p.m. ET

Bay FC found their winning form again, overcoming Angel City with a 2-0 scoreline. Their solid defensive display and two early goals set the rhythm for the match and instilled confidence as they progress.

12. Houston Dash

Previous Ranking: 14
Next Match: Friday, May 23 vs. Orlando Pride, 9:30 p.m. ET

The Dash continue to struggle, allowing more goals than expected this season. Their recent loss to Portland saw a disjointed performance, signifying ongoing issues that need to be addressed.

13. Utah Royals

Previous Ranking: 7
Next Match: Saturday, May 24 vs. KC Current, 7:30 p.m. ET

Goalkeeper Mandy McGlynn saved her team multiple times in a high-pressure match against Washington. However, defensive lapses resulted in missed opportunities for a hoped-for win.

14. Chicago Stars

Previous Ranking: 11
Next Match: Saturday, May 24 vs. Bay FC, 5 p.m. ET

The Stars’ season continues to be challenging, as shown in their defeat to North Carolina. Despite strong efforts from Ludmila, they remain stuck in a difficult position this campaign with only one win.