The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) regular season is underway, with each of the 12 clubs having played at least one Challenge Cup group game. The regular season is a 22-game affair and is approaching the midway point. As such, each team is starting to make their mark as they begin to separate themselves from one another. For those who want to keep up with the action, NWSL matches can be watched on CBS Sports platforms such as Paramount+ and CBS Sports Golazo Network.
Here are the Power Rankings for the 2023 NWSL Regular Season:
1. Washington Spirit – Trinity Rodman, Ashley Sanchez, and Ashley Hatch form an unstoppable trio for the Spirit. They are considered the best in the league and have earned first place for their relentless play.
2. OL Reign – The Reign suffered a 1-0 loss to the Courage in North Carolina but look to bounce back from that defeat. The return of Olivia van der Jagd could give the team the boost they need to clinch first place in the rankings.
3. Portland Thorns FC – After starting strong, Sophia Smith cooled down in the last round. However, Olivia Multrie’s consistently good play could see the Thorns return to the top spot in the rankings with improved teamwork.
4. Gotham FC – The East Coast team went into cruise control after a 0-0 draw with Orlando this week. While they have maintained their spot in the rankings, they need to finish the job against weaker teams to move up.
5. San Diego Wave FC – San Diego has managed to hold onto their standings despite a losing streak. However, they need to improve if they want to move up in the rankings.
6. Houston Dash – Diana Ordonez’s illness has left Ebony Salmon to take up the attacking third, and she has performed well. However, team cohesion may suffer whenever Ordonez returns from her illness.
7. Kansas City – The firing of former head coach Matt Potter has faded, and players are starting to return from injuries. However, the coaching staff needs to find a scheme that works for the talented squad they have.
8. North Carolina Courage – The Courage made a statement against OL Reign with the off-season addition of Tyler Russi. As the team works on their chemistry, they may rise further in the rankings.
9. Racing Louisville FC – Although they have yet to secure their first victory, Racing Louisville has remained in the rankings. With the help of Arie Borges and Uchenna Kanu, they may climb higher.
10. Chicago Red Stars – The defense faces constant overload due to lack of midfield support, and they have struggled to find answers for their problems.
Overall, the NWSL regular season promises to be an exciting one, with each team doing their best to move up in the rankings.