Attendance Records and Unexpected Outcomes
The Chicago Red Stars set a new attendance record at Wrigley Field on Saturday night, a significant milestone for the club and a testament to the growing popularity of women's soccer. However, Bay FC managed to clinch a surprising victory, leaving Chicago fans disappointed yet hopeful for future success. Although the result was not in favor of the home side, the season is still young. There is plenty of time left for teams to shake up the rankings and make significant moves.
Fans can catch select NWSL regular season matches across CBS, CBS Sports Network, Paramount+, and CBS Sports Golazo Network, ensuring that even if they can't make it to the stadium, they won't miss a moment of the action.
2024 NWSL Power Rankings
Orlando Pride
Orlando Pride’s impressive run at the top of the NWSL standings came to a halt with a draw against San Diego. Although their win streak ended, the team remains firmly in the top spot. Orlando Pride’s consistent performance has established them as a formidable force, and dethroning them will not come easy.
Kansas City Current
The Kansas City Current continue to impress, extending their unbeaten streak to 14 games dating back to last season. Despite losing defender Gabrielle Robinson to an ACL injury, the return of forward Bia Zaneratto has bolstered their lineup. Kansas City seems willing to concede goals as long as they can outscore their opponents, a strategy that has paid dividends so far.
Washington Spirit
The Washington Spirit have been on a roll, with their rookie class making undeniable contributions. Defender Kate Wiesner delivered a game-winning goal in their latest match on the road, extending their win streak to four consecutive games. The infusion of young talent has made them a formidable opponent, and they are quickly climbing the rankings.
NJ/NY Gotham FC
The reigning champions NJ/NY Gotham FC are quietly moving up in the rankings and the league table. Ella Stevens has been earning starting roles, and veterans like Crystal Dunn and Rose Lavelle are contributing crucial goals. With a deep and talented roster, Gotham FC’s depth will be invaluable as the season progresses.
Portland Thorns FC
Sophia Smith continues to be a standout player for Portland Thorns FC, adding more goals to her season total. However, she will miss the next match due to a second yellow card for delaying the game. The Thorns will need to adjust to her absence but have the potential to continue their strong performances without her.
Racing Louisville
Racing Louisville is turning a corner at a critical time. With two consecutive wins and an unbeaten run in three games, they are emerging as potential second-half-of-the-season wreckers. While their six draws haven’t been ideal, they are not losses either, and the team has shown significant potential to disrupt the standings as the season progresses.
North Carolina Courage
North Carolina Courage has shown improvement with their fluctuating back formation but recently picked up their fourth loss in five games. With Ryan Williams on a red card suspension, the return of Denise O'Sullivan offers some hope for better results in the coming matches.
San Diego Wave FC
San Diego Wave FC continues to struggle with goal-scoring despite Makenzie Doniak’s equalizer against Orlando Pride. The team has found it challenging to execute tactics effectively in the final third, an area they must improve to climb the rankings.
Chicago Red Stars
The Chicago Red Stars are facing a tough period with their third consecutive loss. The team has struggled to get the ball to star player Mallory Swanson, which has significantly hindered their ability to compete effectively. Resolving this issue will be crucial for their turnaround.
Angel City FC
Angel City FC is struggling with their identity, and the lack of results is putting increasing pressure on the coaching staff. Finding consistency and a clear game plan will be key to reversing their fortunes as the season continues.
Houston Dash
Houston Dash missed an opportunity to capitalize on their momentum, with their three-player back formation facing significant challenges against Racing Louisville. To improve, they must solidify their defensive strategies and capitalize on scoring opportunities.
Bay FC
Bay FC’s victory against Chicago Red Stars offers a glimmer of hope. However, their failure to secure a clean sheet and conceding a goal in stoppage time indicates there is still much work to be done to turn their season around consistently.
Seattle Reign FC
Seattle Reign FC is enduring a difficult first half of the season and navigating an ownership change. The team will need to find stability and focus on the pitch to improve their standings.
Utah Royals FC
Utah Royals FC’s struggles continued as they failed to score against Washington Spirit at home. Their winless streak, which dates back to March, now extends to ten games. Breaking this run will be critical for the team to salvage their season.
As the NWSL season progresses, fans can follow along with select matches available on CBS, CBS Sports Network, Paramount+, and CBS Sports Golazo Network. The unfolding drama promises excitement, with teams keen to make their mark in the remaining games.