The weekend has concluded, bringing with it another series of NWSL matches. That means it’s time to evaluate the league with updated Power Rankings.
Which teams are ascending? Which are falling behind? Our analysts reviewed the play from Matchday 25 to create this week’s updated rankings of all 14 teams. Let’s get started.
Previous ranking: 1
Kansas City experienced a 1-0 loss against the Houston Dash on Saturday. However, the potential loss of forward Temwa Chawinga could be more significant. Chawinga suffered an apparent injury and was taken off the pitch during the first half. The extent of the injury remains unclear. Post-game, Kansas City’s coach, Vlatko Andonovski, mentioned that the injury was located in the “upper leg,” not the knee. Despite this, there’s considerable concern among fans.
Previous ranking: 2
The Washington Spirit faced challenges recently. Midweek, Trinity Rodman sustained a knee injury during a Concacaf Champions Cup match against Monterrey. Following this, they were defeated by the Orlando Pride on Saturday. An unfortunate deflection and a penalty resulted in a 3-2 loss, reversing a 2-1 lead at halftime. This marked their first defeat in several months, but the uncertainty around Rodman’s injury is likely more concerning.
Previous ranking: 4
Any reservations about Marta’s ability to influence a game at 39 should be dispelled by Orlando’s 3-2 victory over the Washington Spirit on Saturday. The Brazilian legend played a key role, contributing to an own goal and scoring the decisive penalty. Her performance led the Pride to a victory against a Washington team that had been undefeated since June. Marta’s introduction in the second half was a turning point. Is anyone surprised?
Previous ranking: 3
The match between NJ/NY Gotham and Racing Louisville was predictable in terms of strategy. Gotham, playing at home and known for their possession-based style, controlled the ball for most of the game. Louisville continued their trend of strong defense, playing deep. The result was Gotham completing almost twice as many passes as their opponents, but the game ended in a 2-2 draw. For Gotham, the draw secured their spot in the playoffs.
1:12
NJ/NY Gotham FC vs. Racing Louisville FC – Game Highlights
Watch the Game Highlights from NJ/NY Gotham FC vs. Racing Louisville FC, 10/19/2025
Previous ranking: 5
Olivia Moultrie has now scored four goals in her last three games. The 20-year-old midfielder scored twice in Portland’s 2-0 victory against Angel City on Sunday. Her first goal was a long-distance shot, while the second was a penalty kick. With her contributions and a strong defensive performance, the Portland Thorns secured their playoff berth this weekend.
Previous ranking: 7
The Wave achieved a club record, scoring six goals in a single game. They defeated the Chicago Stars 6-1 at Snapdragon Stadium on Saturday, dominating in the attacking third. San Diego consistently created opportunities in Chicago’s area, both in open play and from set pieces. This impressive offensive performance has secured the Wave’s place in the postseason.
1:16
San Diego Wave FC vs. Chicago Stars – Game Highlights
Watch the Game Highlights from San Diego Wave FC vs. Chicago Stars, 10/19/2025
Previous ranking: 6
With a 2-1 victory over the Utah Royals on Friday, the Reign have secured their place in the playoffs. Seattle didn’t create a multitude of scoring chances. Ainsley McCammon scored her first NWSL goal just before halftime, and a penalty from Sofia Huerta secured the win. The Reign’s defense has been somewhat vulnerable in 2025, but the win against Utah could provide a valuable boost as they approach the playoffs.
Previous ranking: 9
Manaka Matsukubo once again delivered a strong performance for the Courage, scoring in a 4-1 win over Bay FC. Despite not receiving enough recognition, Matsukubo’s hat trick, which could have been four goals if not for a missed penalty, was crucial. Her attacking contributions have been consistent for the team in 2025. Matsukubo is among the league leaders in goal contributions this year and was a major threat against Bay. She’s a star player.
Previous ranking: 8
A victory away against Gotham would have secured Louisville’s playoff qualification, but Sunday’s 2-2 draw means that Racing’s postseason fate will be determined in their regular-season finale next month. Louisville was in a good position late in the match against NJ/NY, but Rose Lavelle’s late equalizer turned a potential playoff celebration into a draw for Bev Yanez’s team.
Previous ranking: 11
The Houston Dash’s performance against the Kansas City Current wasn’t particularly convincing on Saturday, as they were outshot 20 to six. However, they managed a 1-0 victory thanks to a goal from Ryan Gareis shortly after entering the game. This win kept Houston’s playoff hopes alive, but results from other matches meant that they ultimately did not qualify for this year’s postseason.
1:19
Houston Dash vs. Kansas City Current – Game Highlights
Watch the Game Highlights from Houston Dash vs. Kansas City Current, 10/19/2025
Previous ranking: 10
With their postseason aspirations already over, it’s not surprising that Angel City appeared uninspired in their 2-0 defeat to the Portland Thorns on Sunday. Racing Louisville’s earlier draw meant that Angel City’s season effectively concluded before their game at BMO Stadium. Moultrie’s two goals simply underscored what has been a disappointing season.
Previous ranking: 12
The Utah Royals’ three-game winning streak seems like a distant memory. The same could be said for their eight-game unbeaten run in the regular season, which ended with last weekend’s loss to San Diego. Following a 2-1 loss in Seattle on Friday, the Royals have now entered a losing streak. Already out of playoff contention, they were outplayed in a lackluster match against the Reign.
Previous ranking: 13
Bay FC appeared to be a team lacking motivation on Friday night. With no chance of reaching the playoffs, the home side delivered one of the most disorganized performances of the season. They were defeated 4-1 by the North Carolina Courage in a game that could have been even more one-sided had North Carolina not missed a penalty. Turnovers in their own half and a shaky performance from goalkeeper Jordan Silkowitz contributed to Bay falling behind early and failing to recover.
Previous ranking: 14
Without playoff qualification as a motivator, this period for Chicago is focused on identifying potential for the future. Saturday’s heavy 6-1 loss away in San Diego provided few positive signs for 2026 and beyond. They were overwhelmed in their own defensive area and lacked threat when venturing into the Wave’s half. The sooner Chicago can forget this game, the better.
