The 2025 NWSL season is underway, and the latest power rankings are here. With three weeks of play completed and the league entering an international break, these rankings will hold until NWSL action resumes.
Week three has already brought shifts from the previous rankings, potentially answering a key question early in the season: Who will challenge Orlando for the league`s summit? Early indications point towards Kansas City Current.
While significant changes at the top were not anticipated so soon, the league`s leading teams are proving to be highly competitive. Washington Spirit remains a top contender, but Orlando and Kansas City are formidable rivals. Gotham FC may face challenges after Tierna Davidson`s knee injury, which also impacts her availability for the USWNT in April.
The mid-tier teams are in a phase of solidifying their lineups and refining their strategies, while the bottom ranks see some new faces alongside familiar ones.
This break provides a valuable opportunity for teams to regroup for the remainder of the season. Fans can follow NWSL regular season games on CBS, CBS Sports Network, Paramount+, and CBS Sports Golazo Network.
2025 NWSL Power Rankings
| Rank | Team | Change | Analysis |
|---|---|---|---|
|
1. |
Kansas City Current |
+1 |
The Kansas City Current has demonstrated dominance in all aspects of the game. They are performing exceptionally well against playoff contenders, setting a high standard for the league. |
|
2. |
Orlando Pride |
-1 |
Barbra Banda hasn`t scored in two weeks, highlighting the need for consistent scoring from top players. Despite this, Orlando remains a top-tier team and a major force in the league, even with a slight dip in rankings. |
|
3. |
Washington Spirit |
— |
Trinity Rodman is returning with limited minutes, and Ashley Hatch is performing well. However, the defense is the standout unit for Washington this week, showing strong cohesion among Rebecal Bernal, Tara McKeown, Esme Morgan, and Casey Krueger. |
|
4. |
NJ/NY Gotham FC |
-– |
While Gotham`s resilience is keeping them in the top four for now, they need to address injury concerns during the break to secure wins in the upcoming matches early in the season. |
|
5. |
Houston Dash |
+1 |
The Houston Dash have been challenging playoff-caliber teams early in the season and are climbing the rankings, raising the question of whether they are a dark horse or a serious contender. |
|
6. |
Seattle Reign FC |
-1 |
Seattle Reign FC has struggled to maintain possession and create scoring opportunities. With veteran injuries, it`s suggested the coaching staff should utilize their faster bench players more frequently. |
|
7. |
North Carolina Courage |
-1 |
North Carolina Courage missed an opportunity for a win and continues to struggle to secure definitive victories. Jaedyn Shaw`s time with the national team might be a catalyst for improvement. |
|
8. |
Angel City FC |
+3 |
Angel City FC enters the upper half of the rankings thanks to strong performances from young players like Alyssa and Gisele Thompson, Savy King, Kennedy Fuller, and Riley Tiernan. Continued reliance on these players under interim manager Sam Laity is anticipated. |
|
9. |
San Diego Wave FC |
+1 |
San Diego Wave FC challenged Orlando and, despite a loss, showed growing team cohesion between new and veteran players. The midfield, with Kenza Dali and Gia Corely, appears to be a strength. |
|
10. |
Utah Royals |
-2 |
Utah Royals are showing signs of regression, possibly indicating their previous success was due to a coaching change rather than inherent improvement. The break is timely for the coaching staff to make necessary adjustments. |
|
11. |
Bay FC |
-2 |
Bay FC failed to capitalize on opportunities against a top-four team. While their game plan is present, execution is lacking, and they risk being overtaken by rising teams without adjustments. |
|
12. |
Racing Louisville FC |
— |
Racing Louisville FC took advantage of a favorable matchup against a lower-ranked team. More consistent performance is needed to climb higher in the rankings. |
|
13. |
Portland Thorns FC |
— |
Mackenzie Arnold`s outstanding goalkeeping, including a penalty save, was crucial for Portland Thorns FC. However, questionable shot selection indicates they are still searching for momentum. |
|
14. |
Chicago Stars FC |
— |
Chicago Stars FC missed an opportunity to change their trajectory against another struggling team and appear to be heading towards the bottom of the rankings. |
