Attendance Records and Unexpected Outcomes
Saturday night was a landmark event for the Chicago Red Stars as they set a new attendance record at Wrigley Field. Despite the spirited home crowd, the Red Stars couldn't secure the win. Bay FC managed to clinch a victory, leaving Chicago fans both disappointed and hopeful for future success. There is still plenty of time left in the season 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.
2024 NWSL Power Rankings
Orlando Pride
Orlando Pride’s impressive win streak concluded with a draw against San Diego, but they remain steadfast at the top spot. Their consistent performance suggests they won't be easily dethroned.
Kansas City Current
The Current are riding a 14-game unbeaten streak that dates back to last season. Despite losing defender Gabrielle Robinson to an ACL injury, the team remains strong with the return of forward Bia Zaneratto. Kansas City seems willing to concede goals if it means outscoring their opponents.
Washington Spirit
Washington Spirit's rookie class has been nothing short of phenomenal. Defender Kate Wiesner delivered the game-winner on the road, extending their win streak to four consecutive games. Their young talent is proving to be a strong asset.
NJ/NY Gotham FC
The reigning champions are quietly ascending in both the rankings and the league table. Ella Stevens is earning starting roles, while veterans like Crystal Dunn and Rose Lavelle are contributing goals. Gotham FC’s depth will be invaluable as the season progresses.
Portland Thorns FC
Sophia Smith continues to be a standout, adding more goals to her season total. However, she will miss the next match due to a second yellow card for delaying the game, requiring the Thorns to adjust in her absence.
Racing Louisville
Racing Louisville is hitting their stride at a critical time. They have two consecutive wins and are unbeaten in three games. Although their six draws are less than ideal, they are not losses either, and there is potential for them to become significant disruptors in the second half of the season.
North Carolina Courage
North Carolina Courage has shown improvement with a fluctuating back formation. Despite picking up their fourth loss in five games, the return of Denise O'Sullivan brings hope. Ryan Williams is currently serving a red card suspension, adding to the team's challenges.
San Diego Wave FC
San Diego Wave FC continues to struggle with goal-scoring. Makenzie Doniak scored an equalizer against Orlando Pride, but the team finds it challenging to execute tactics in the final third of the pitch.
Chicago Red Stars
The Red Stars have endured their third consecutive loss and are struggling to get the ball to key player Mallory Swanson. The team will need to refocus and strategize to turn their season around.
Angel City FC
Angel City FC is currently grappling with an identity crisis. The lack of results is putting increasing pressure on the coach, and the team must find a way to stabilize their performance.
Houston Dash
Houston Dash failed to capitalize on their recent momentum, struggling against Racing Louisville’s challenging three-player back formation. This game exposed several vulnerabilities that the Dash will need to address.
Bay FC
Bay FC’s win against Chicago may mark a turning point for the team. However, they failed to secure a clean sheet, conceding a goal in stoppage time—a consistent issue they'll need to resolve to improve their standing.
Seattle Reign FC
Seattle Reign FC is enduring a difficult first half of the season, compounded by the challenges of navigating an ownership change. Their performance has left much to be desired, and the team will need significant changes to turn their season around.
Utah Royals FC
Utah Royals FC's struggles continue as they failed to score against the Spirit on home turf. Their winless streak, which extends back to March, and their current 10-game losing run are alarming. Immediate strategic changes are necessary to salvage their season.
Fans can catch select NWSL regular season matches across CBS, CBS Sports Network, Paramount+, and CBS Sports Golazo Network.