NWSL 2025 Season: Surprising Teams and Predictions for the Playoffs

The 2025 NWSL season has already provided plenty of surprises, with several teams defying expectations. Let's take a closer look at which teams are likely to maintain their form and which might falter as the season progresses.

Kansas City Current (6-2-0, 18 pts.)

Defining Result: 2-0 win over Washington Spirit on March 22 Verdict: The team to beat. Kansas City Current has shown why they were considered one of the top teams coming into the season. Despite a recent two-game losing streak, they bounced back with a dominant 4-1 victory over Bay FC. With the most attacking talent and a highly influential midfield, Kansas City remains a strong contender for the title.

Orlando Pride (5-2-1, 16 pts.)

Defining Result: 3-2 win over Angel City FC on April 25 Verdict: A contender working through issues. Orlando Pride, the defending champions, have had a mixed start but remain one of the best teams in the league. Key players like Barbra Banda are expected to regain their form, making Orlando a serious threat as the season unfolds.

Washington Spirit (5-3-0, 15 pts.)

Defining Result: 1-0 win over Orlando Pride on April 19 Verdict: Ironically overachieving. Despite a long injury list, Washington Spirit has managed to stay competitive. With the return of key players, they could be a formidable opponent in the latter part of the season.

San Diego Wave FC (4-2-2, 14 pts.)

Defining Result: 4-1 win over Racing Louisville FC on April 19 Verdict: Surprisingly, the real deal. After a disastrous 2024 season, San Diego Wave has turned things around. Their possession-based play and effective midfield make them a team to watch.

Angel City FC (4-2-2, 14 pts.)

Defining Result: 4-3 win over Washington Spirit on May 2 Verdict: Overperforming but optimistic. Angel City has shown flashes of brilliance but needs to address defensive issues to secure a playoff spot.

Portland Thorns FC (3-2-4, 13 pts.)

Defining Result: 4-1 win over NJ/NY Gotham FC on April 22 Verdict: Underperforming -- on paper. Despite leading in expected goals, Portland has struggled to convert chances. However, recent performances suggest they could climb the table.

NJ/NY Gotham FC (3-3-3, 12 pts.)

Defining Result: 3-0 win over Washington Spirit on April 26 Verdict: Underperforming. Gotham FC has the talent to compete but needs to find consistency to challenge for the title.

Seattle Reign FC (3-3-2, 11 pts.)

Defining Result: 1-0 win over Kansas City on May 2 Verdict: Reality. Seattle has shown improvement and is on track to compete for a playoff spot.

Racing Louisville FC (3-3-2, 11 pts.)

Defining Result: 1-0 win over NJ/NY Gotham FC on May 9 Verdict: Déjà vu? Louisville has been consistent but needs to find a way to break into the playoff spots.

Houston Dash (3-4-1, 10 pts.)

Defining Result: 1-0 win over Seattle Reign FC on May 11 Verdict: Harsh reality. Houston has improved but remains a long way from being a title contender.

North Carolina Courage (2-3-3, 9 pts.)

Defining Result: 3-2 win over Kansas City Current on April 26 Verdict: Better days ahead. North Carolina has shown potential but needs to find consistency to climb the table.

Bay FC (2-4-2, 8 pts.)

Defining Result: 2-1 loss to Chicago Stars on April 13 Verdict: Unwell. Bay FC has struggled to find form and needs to improve to avoid finishing at the bottom.

Utah Royals (1-6-1, 4 pts.)

Defining Result: 2-0 loss to North Carolina Courage on May 3 Verdict: Uh oh. Utah has struggled to find consistency and needs to improve to avoid a repeat of last season.

Chicago Stars FC (1-6-1, 4 pts.)

Defining Result: 6-0 loss to Orlando Pride on March 14 Verdict: This is reality. Chicago has struggled with depth and quality, making it difficult to compete in the NWSL.