Attendance Records and Unexpected Outcomes
The Chicago Red Stars set a new attendance record at Wrigley Field on Saturday night, yet their fans left the venue with mixed emotions. While the record-breaking crowd showcased the growing popularity of women's soccer, the Red Stars' performance on the field did not meet expectations. Bay FC managed to clinch a victory, leaving the Chicago fans disappointed but hopeful for future success.
Despite this setback, there is 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 win streak came to a halt with a draw against San Diego. Nonetheless, the team remains steadfast at the top spot in the standings. Their consistent performance has been a hallmark of their season, and they won't be easily dethroned.
Kansas City Current
The Current are on a phenomenal 14-game unbeaten streak dating back to last season. However, they suffered a blow with defender Gabrielle Robinson's ACL injury. On a positive note, forward Bia Zaneratto has returned to the pitch, strengthening their lineup. Kansas City seems willing to concede goals if they can outscore their opponents, a strategy that has generally worked in their favor.
Washington Spirit
Washington’s rookie class has been nothing short of extraordinary. Defender Kate Wiesner delivered a game-winner on the road, extending their win streak to four consecutive games. The team’s young talent is a strong asset that continues to drive their success.
NJ/NY Gotham FC
The reigning champions are quietly climbing up the rankings and the league table. Players like Ella Stevens are earning starting roles, while veterans such as Crystal Dunn and Rose Lavelle are contributing crucial goals. Gotham FC’s depth will be invaluable as the season progresses.
Portland Thorns FC
Sophia Smith has been a standout performer, adding more goals to her 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 in her absence, a challenge they must rise to if they hope to maintain their competitive edge.
Racing Louisville
Racing Louisville is showing signs of turning a corner at a critical juncture in the season. They have two consecutive wins and are unbeaten in three games. While their six draws haven’t been ideal, they are not losses either. This resilience indicates potential to become second-half-of-the-season disruptors in the league.
North Carolina Courage
North Carolina Courage exhibited improvement with a fluctuating back formation, yet they picked up their fourth loss in five games. Ryan Williams will miss time due to a red card suspension, but the return of Denise O'Sullivan should provide a much-needed boost.
San Diego Wave FC
San Diego Wave FC continues to face challenges with goal scoring. Although Makenzie Doniak scored an equalizer against Orlando Pride, the team struggles to execute their tactics in the final third. Finding consistency in their attack will be crucial for their success going forward.
Chicago Red Stars
The Red Stars faced their third consecutive loss and continue to struggle to get the ball to their star player, Mallory Swanson. Chicago needs to find solutions quickly if they hope to turn their season around and capitalize on the support of their growing fanbase.
Angel City FC
Angel City FC appears unsure of their identity, a situation that is reflected in their performance and results. The lack of victories is putting considerable pressure on the coach, and changes might be imminent if the team wants to steer their season back on track.
Houston Dash
Houston Dash failed to capitalize on their recent momentum. Their three-player back formation faced tough moments against Racing Louisville, underscoring areas that need improvement. How they address these challenges will be critical to their future performance.
Bay FC
Bay FC hopes their win against Chicago marks a turning point in their season. However, their inability to secure a clean sheet, conceding a goal in stoppage time, points to underlying defensive issues. They'll need to address these promptly to sustain an upward trajectory.
Seattle Reign FC
Seattle Reign FC is enduring a painfully difficult first half of the season, compounded by navigating an ownership change. Stability off the pitch will be crucial in setting the stage for an improvement in their on-field performances.
Utah Royals FC
Utah Royals FC failed to score against the Spirit at home, extending their winless streak since March. They are currently on a 10-game losing run, a situation demanding urgent attention and action to reverse their fortunes.
As the season progresses, fans can catch select NWSL regular season matches across CBS, CBS Sports Network, Paramount+, and CBS Sports Golazo Network. Given the dynamic nature of the league, there’s every chance for dramatic shifts in the standings as teams fight for dominance.
Defender Kate Wiesner’s game-winning performance on the road and Sophia Smith’s suspension exemplify the highs and lows faced by teams. The lack of results is undoubtedly putting pressure on coaches and players alike. The upcoming matches will be critical in determining how these narratives unfold and which teams can weather the storm to emerge as contenders.