Attendance Records and Unexpected Outcomes
The Chicago Red Stars broke a new attendance record at Wrigley Field on Saturday night. Despite the enthusiastic crowd, Bay FC managed to clinch a victory, leaving Chicago fans disappointed but still hopeful for future success. The season is far from over, and there's plenty of time for teams to reshuffle the rankings and make significant moves.
For fans eager to catch the action, select NWSL regular season matches are available across CBS, CBS Sports Network, Paramount+, and CBS Sports Golazo Network.
2024 NWSL Power Rankings
Orlando Pride
Orlando Pride’s winning streak ended with a draw against San Diego, but they remain steadfast at the top of the rankings. Their consistent performance makes them hard to dethrone.
Kansas City Current
Kansas City Current are on a 14-game unbeaten streak dating back to last season. However, they lost defender Gabrielle Robinson to an ACL injury. Forward Bia Zaneratto has returned to the pitch, strengthening the lineup. Kansas City seems willing to concede goals as long as they can outscore their opponents.
Washington Spirit
Washington Spirit’s rookie class has been impressive. Defender Kate Wiesner delivered the game-winning goal on the road, extending their win streak to four consecutive games. Their young talent is proving to be a valuable asset.
NJ/NY Gotham FC
The reigning champions, NJ/NY Gotham FC, are quietly climbing up the rankings and the league table. Ella Stevens is earning starting roles, while veterans like Crystal Dunn and Rose Lavelle continue to contribute goals. Gotham FC’s depth will be invaluable as the season progresses.
Portland Thorns FC
Portland Thorns FC’s standout player, Sophia Smith, has been adding to her goal tally this season but will miss the next match due to a second yellow card for delaying the game. The Thorns will need to adapt in her absence.
Racing Louisville
Racing Louisville is hitting their stride at a critical point in the season. They secured two consecutive wins and are unbeaten in their last three games. While their six draws haven’t been ideal, they aren’t losses either. Racing Louisville has the potential to become a major disruptor in the second half of the season.
North Carolina Courage
North Carolina Courage has shown improvement with a fluctuating back formation, although they picked up their fourth loss in five games. Ryan Williams is currently on a red card suspension, but Denise O'Sullivan is back on the pitch, providing a boost to the team.
San Diego Wave FC
San Diego Wave FC continues to struggle with goal-scoring, although Makenzie Doniak managed an equalizer against Orlando Pride. The team is having difficulty executing tactics in the final third.
Chicago Red Stars
The Red Stars faced their third consecutive loss and are struggling to get Mallory Swanson the ball. This is a critical time for the team as they need to find a strategy to turn their season around.
Angel City FC
Angel City FC is currently struggling to define their identity. The lack of results is putting significant pressure on the coach, and the team needs to find cohesion quickly to climb up the rankings.
Houston Dash
Houston Dash failed to capitalize on their momentum. Their three-player back formation faced tough moments against Racing Louisville, and adjustments will be necessary to improve their performance.
Bay FC
Bay FC hopes their win against Chicago is a turning point for their season. However, they failed to secure a clean sheet, conceding a goal in stoppage time, which shows there's room for improvement in their defense.
Seattle Reign FC
Seattle Reign FC is enduring a troubling first half of the season and are navigating an ownership change. The team will need to stabilize if they want to rise in the rankings.
Utah Royals FC
Utah Royals FC failed to score against the Washington Spirit at home, extending their winless streak since March. They are currently on a 10-game losing run, signaling serious challenges ahead for the team.
Fans can catch select NWSL regular season matches across CBS, CBS Sports Network, Paramount+, and CBS Sports Golazo Network. As the season progresses, teams have the opportunity to make significant moves, and supporters remain hopeful for their favorite teams' success.