The Chicago Red Stars set a new attendance record at Wrigley Field on Saturday night, drawing in a vibrant crowd eager to support their team. While the evening did not end in victory for the Red Stars, with Bay FC clinching a win, the atmosphere was electrifying. Despite the outcome, Chicago fans remain hopeful for future success, knowing there is ample time left in the season for their beloved team to make significant moves in the rankings.
Throughout the season, fans can catch select NWSL regular season matches across CBS, CBS Sports Network, Paramount+, and CBS Sports Golazo Network. As the race for the top continues, it's clear that each team is fighting hard to secure their spot in the standings.
2024 NWSL Power Rankings
Orlando Pride
Orlando Pride’s impressive win streak came to a halt with a draw against San Diego, yet they remain firmly at the top spot. The team's consistent performance has made them a formidable opponent, and they are not likely to be easily dethroned.
Kansas City Current
The Kansas City Current are on a remarkable 14-game unbeaten streak, dating back to last season. However, the team faces a significant challenge with the loss of defender Gabrielle Robinson to an ACL injury. On a positive note, forward Bia Zaneratto has returned to the pitch, strengthening their lineup. Kansas City’s strategy seems to be focused on outscoring their opponents, even if it means conceding goals along the way.
Washington Spirit
Washington Spirit's rookie class has been a standout this season. Defender Kate Wiesner, in particular, delivered a crucial game-winner on the road. Their win streak has now extended to four consecutive games, showcasing the undeniable talent within their young squad.
NJ/NY Gotham FC
The reigning champions, NJ/NY Gotham FC, are quietly climbing up in both the rankings and the league table. Ella Stevens is earning starting roles, while veterans like Crystal Dunn and Rose Lavelle are consistently contributing goals. The depth of Gotham FC will certainly be invaluable as the season progresses.
Portland Thorns FC
Sophia Smith continues to be a standout for Portland Thorns FC, adding more goals to her impressive 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 their strategy in her absence.
Racing Louisville
Racing Louisville is showing signs of a critical turnaround. With two consecutive wins and an unbeaten streak extending to three games, they are gaining momentum. Although their six draws haven't been ideal, they also haven't been losses, hinting at potential to become serious contenders in the second half of the season.
North Carolina Courage
North Carolina Courage has experienced some ups and downs, experimenting with a fluctuating back formation. They have endured four losses in their last five games. Ryan Williams is currently on a red card suspension, but the return of Denise O'Sullivan to the pitch offers some hope for improvement.
San Diego Wave FC
San Diego Wave FC continues to struggle with goal scoring. Makenzie Doniak recently scored an equalizer against Orlando Pride, but the team still faces challenges in executing tactics in the final third.
Chicago Red Stars
Chicago Red Stars have now faced their third consecutive loss. The team is finding it difficult to efficiently get the ball to Mallory Swanson, which has significantly hampered their offensive efforts.
Angel City FC
Angel City FC is currently grappling with an identity crisis. The lack of positive results is putting increasing pressure on the coach and the team as a whole.
Houston Dash
Houston Dash failed to capitalize on their recent momentum. Their three-player back formation faced tough moments against Racing Louisville, indicating some defensive vulnerabilities.
Bay FC
Bay FC hopes that their recent win against Chicago Red Stars will be a turning point for the team. However, they were unable to secure a clean sheet, conceding a goal during stoppage time, which highlights the need for defensive improvements.
Seattle Reign FC
Seattle Reign FC is enduring a challenging first half of the season. The team is also navigating the complexities of an ownership change, adding to their current difficulties.
Utah Royals FC
Utah Royals FC has not been able to score against the Washington Spirit at home, and their winless streak has now extended to March. With a ten-game losing run, the team is under immense pressure to change their course as the season progresses.
Despite the initial setbacks for many teams, the NWSL season is far from over. Fans are eager to see how the standings will evolve and which teams will rise to the occasion. Catch all the action on CBS, CBS Sports Network, Paramount+, and CBS Sports Golazo Network.