The 2025 NWSL season continues, and the power rankings are updated. After three weeks of play, with a pause for international matches, these rankings will hold until the NWSL season resumes.
Changes have already occurred since the previous rankings, potentially revealing an early answer to a key question: Who will challenge Orlando for the top spot this year? Early indications suggest Kansas City Current is emerging as a strong contender.
While significant shifts in the top four were not anticipated so early, the league`s leading teams are creating excitement. Washington Spirit remains a top contender, but Orlando and Kansas City pose a serious challenge. Gotham FC may face challenges after Tierna Davidson`s knee injury, which also affects her USWNT availability for April.
The middle-ranked teams are stable as they refine their starting lineups and strategies. The lower rankings include both familiar and new teams.
Teams now have a break to regroup for the remainder of the season. Fans can follow NWSL regular season games on various platforms.
2025 NWSL Power Rankings
| Rank | Team | Change | Analysis |
|---|---|---|---|
|
1. |
Kansas City Current |
+1 |
The Kansas City Current is demonstrating dominance in all aspects of the game. They are performing strongly against playoff contenders and setting a high standard for the league. |
|
2. |
Orlando Pride |
-1 |
Orlando Pride remains elite, though Barbra Banda hasn`t scored in two weeks. Relying on a defensive midfielder for scoring is a concern when the MVP candidate isn`t also scoring. They are still a major force in the league despite this slight ranking drop. |
|
3. |
Washington Spirit |
— |
Washington Spirit benefits from Trinity Rodman`s return with limited minutes and Ashley Hatch`s excellent form. However, the defense is currently the standout unit, showing strong cohesion among Rebecal Bernal, Tara McKeown, Esme Morgan, and Casey Krueger. |
|
4. |
NJ/NY Gotham FC |
-– |
Gotham FC`s resilience can only sustain them in the top four for a limited time. They need to use the break to address injury issues if they aim to win in the early part of the season. |
|
5. |
Houston Dash |
+1 |
Houston Dash has challenged playoff contenders early in the season and is climbing the rankings. The question is whether they are a dark horse or a team about to emerge as a major competitor. |
|
6. |
Seattle Reign FC |
-1 |
Seattle Reign FC struggled with possession and creating scoring opportunities. With veteran injuries persisting, the coaching staff should consider utilizing their faster bench players more. |
|
7. |
North Carolina Courage |
-1 |
North Carolina Courage missed a winnable game. Despite their efforts, they struggle to secure decisive victories. Perhaps Jaedyn Shaw`s time with the national team will provide a boost. |
|
8. |
Angel City FC |
+3 |
Angel City FC enters the top half of the rankings due to strong performances from Alyssa and Gisele Thompson, Savy King, Kennedy Fuller, and Riley Tiernan. Hopefully, interim manager Sam Laity continues to play these younger players. |
|
9. |
San Diego Wave FC |
+1 |
San Diego Wave FC challenged Orlando and showed growing cohesion between new and veteran players despite a loss. The midfield is connecting well, and Kenza Dali and Gia Corely might be key additions. |
|
10. |
Utah Royals |
-2 |
Utah Royals appear to be declining after an initial boost from a mid-season coaching change last year. They need to reset quickly, and the break is timely for coaching adjustments. |
|
11. |
Bay FC |
-2 |
Bay FC failed to capitalize on opportunities against a top-four team. They have ideas but lack execution, and they will be overtaken by rising teams if they don`t improve. |
|
12. |
Racing Louisville FC |
— |
Racing Louisville FC took advantage of playing against the league`s lowest-ranked team. They need to demonstrate more to move up in the rankings. |
|
13. |
Portland Thorns FC |
— |
Portland Thorns FC relied on a strong performance from goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold, including a penalty save. Questionable shot selection continues to hinder their momentum. |
|
14. |
Chicago Stars FC |
— |
Chicago Stars FC missed an opportunity to change their trajectory against another struggling team. They are likely heading towards the bottom of the rankings. |
Benedict Kingsley