NWSL Power Rankings: Kansas City Current's Unstoppable Run

The Kansas City Current have solidified their position at the top of the NWSL table, extending their lead to a staggering 12 points with just 11 games remaining. Their 13th win of the season, a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Utah Royals, showcased their resilience and tactical prowess. Temwa Chawinga once again proved to be the difference-maker, scoring the lone goal in the 82nd minute. The Current’s depth was on full display as Ally Sentnor, recently acquired in a blockbuster trade, made her debut against her former team.

The Contenders: Who Can Challenge Kansas City?

1. Washington Spirit Despite a 0-0 draw with Gotham FC, the Spirit remain a formidable force. Trinity Rodman’s return from injury is a significant boost, and her 40-minute cameo off the bench indicates she’s nearing full fitness. The Spirit’s ability to control possession, even with a numerical advantage, highlights their potential to challenge for the top spot.

2. Orlando Pride The Pride’s 1-1 draw with Racing Louisville was a missed opportunity. Failing to convert two penalties and allowing a goal in first-half stoppage time left them frustrated. However, their attacking firepower, led by Marta and Alex Morgan, ensures they remain in the playoff hunt.

3. San Diego Wave FC A late-game surge saw the Wave secure a 1-1 draw with Angel City. Makenzy Robbe’s 85th-minute goal was canceled out by Alanna Kennedy’s equalizer in stoppage time. Despite extending their unbeaten streak to four games, the Wave’s inconsistent attack remains a concern.

4. Portland Thorns The Thorns’ 4-2 victory over Seattle Reign FC was a statement win. Sam Coffey, Reilyn Turner, Reyna Reyes, and Pietra Tordin all found the net, showcasing their offensive depth. With three wins in their last four games, the Thorns are peaking at the right time.

The Midfield Battle: Teams Fighting for Playoff Spots

5. Seattle Reign FC Despite an early lead, the Reign couldn’t contain Portland’s attack, falling 4-2. Their four-game unbeaten streak came to an end, but they remain in contention for a playoff spot.

6. Racing Louisville FC Jordyn Bloomer’s heroics in goal, including two penalty saves, earned Louisville a 1-1 draw with Orlando. Their transition attack continues to be a threat, but consistency remains an issue.

7. NJ/NY Gotham FC A 0-0 draw with Washington Spirit extended Gotham’s unbeaten streak to four games. However, their inability to capitalize on opportunities keeps them in the middle of the pack.

The Struggle at the Bottom: Teams Looking for Redemption

8. North Carolina Courage A 0-0 draw with San Diego Wave FC kept the Courage in the playoff race, but they need to start converting draws into wins.

9. Angel City FC Alanna Kennedy’s late equalizer salvaged a point for Angel City, but they remain winless since May. Their defense has been solid, but the attack needs to find its rhythm.

10. Bay FC Despite generating more chances, Bay FC could only manage a 1-1 draw with Chicago Stars FC. Their winless streak now stands at four games, and they need to find a way to turn their attacking prowess into results.

11. Houston Dash A 2-1 victory over North Carolina Courage, thanks to Sophie Schmidt’s stoppage-time winner, provided a much-needed boost. The Dash’s counter-attacking approach paid off, but they need to build on this momentum.

12. Chicago Stars FC A 1-1 draw with Bay FC extended their winless streak. Shea Groom’s goal was a bright spot, but the Stars were outplayed in nearly every aspect of the game.

13. Utah Royals A 1-0 loss to Kansas City Current extended their struggles. Despite limiting the Current’s chances, the Royals couldn’t find the back of the net and remain in search of their second win of the season.

Conclusion: The Road to the Playoffs

With 11 games remaining, the race for the playoffs is heating up. Kansas City Current’s dominance has set the standard, but teams like Washington Spirit, Orlando Pride, and Portland Thorns are closing the gap. The battle for playoff spots promises to be intense, with every point crucial in the final stretch of the season.