As the 2025 NWSL regular season nears its conclusion with only a few weeks remaining, the intensity escalates. Week 20 provided a glimpse of potential playoff matchups, featuring a goalless draw between Kansas City Current and the Washington Spirit, highlighting their status as leading contenders. The Spirit aim to build on their point total in an upcoming match against Angel City FC on Thursday. Angel City FC, currently three points below the playoff threshold, urgently requires a significant victory.
The playoff scenario remains largely unsettled; only Kansas City Current has secured a postseason berth. The other thirteen clubs are vigorously competing to keep their playoff hopes alive as the season winds down. This context gives rise to the NWSL Power Rankings, where underdog teams are rapidly ascending, while some expected playoff contenders face difficulties.
With Week 21 approaching, the question of which teams will improve or decline remains central. Ensure you catch all the forthcoming matches.
2025 NWSL Power Rankings Update
As Week 21 draws near, here is an assessment of the league`s current standings and team momentum:
1. Kansas City Current
Kansas City Current, despite appearing somewhat vulnerable without Temwa Chawinga, demonstrated resilience and a fierce determination to prove their status as the league`s dominant force. While resting Chawinga`s knee before the playoffs could be a strategic move, the team must address its offensive strategy in her absence.
2. Washington Spirit
Although the NWSL Shield may be beyond their grasp, the Washington Spirit are seriously committed to individual player performances. Leicy Santos showcased both her defensive prowess and creative flair in midfield, while Tara McKeown displayed potential as a future NWSL Defender of the Year candidate.
3. Portland Thorns FC
Portland Thorns FC continues to compete fiercely against teams hitting their stride. Despite recent missed scoring opportunities, their overall performance prevents any significant drop in the power rankings.
4. Seattle Reign FC
Seattle Reign FC demonstrated timely execution with a crucial victory, moving up one spot. While concerns about their goal-scoring ability persist, the presence of veteran midfielder Jess Fishlock provides a reliable, impact option when needed.
5. Gotham FC
Gotham FC is hitting its peak precisely when it matters most, making their strong run appear effortless as the season concludes. Esther Gonzalez leads the Golden Boot race, and midfielder Jaelin Howell contributes significantly to goals while effectively disrupting opponents.
6. Orlando Pride
Jacqueline Ovalle`s first NWSL career assist brought a welcome offensive spark, which Orlando Pride sorely needs as they show signs of rapidly declining form late in the season.
7. San Diego Wave
San Diego Wave, similar to Orlando, appears to be struggling with inconsistency. Their current lack of goal production and passive playing style raise questions about the sharp contrast to their performance earlier in the season.
8. Racing Louisville
Racing Louisville faced a challenging week, despite consistently competing with stronger teams. Our thoughts are with Savannah DeMelo as she recovers from a medical episode experienced in Week 20.
9. Chicago Stars FC
Chicago Stars FC holds the distinction of being unbeaten since the summer break, making them an undesirable opponent as they lay foundations for next season. Their tenacious, hard-working, “blue-collar” style perfectly embodies the spirit of Chicago.
10. Houston Dash
Houston Dash had an impressive six-week stretch but encountered a resilient opponent, which halted their momentum. While they seemed to struggle in challenging conditions, the next challenge for Houston is to demonstrate their ability to rebound.
11. Utah Royals FC
Paige Monaghan`s excellent form continued for Utah Royals, as she once again found the back of the net. The team demonstrated improved game management, achieving a more dominant performance compared to their earlier, tougher stalemates.
12. North Carolina Courage
North Carolina Courage exhibits a tenacious, never-give-up attitude, exemplified by midfielder Brianna Pinto. The team, requiring a performance to shift their momentum, may have found it through the combined impact of Pinto and Manaka Matsukubo`s exceptional play.
13. Bay FC
Bay FC`s position in the rankings is largely sustained by goalkeeper Jordan Silkowitz`s outstanding performances. Silkowitz delivered a masterclass in goal, complemented by Racheal Kundenanji`s persistent efforts that ultimately yielded results.
14. Angel City FC
Despite remaining within the playoff conversation, Angel City FC fails to project a strong sense of momentum as the season rapidly concludes. They delivered a decidedly poor performance when a definitive showing was most required.
