Power Rankings Update After NWSL Matchday 25
By: Joseph Lowery
Date: October 19, 2025, 08:37 PM ET
As the NWSL action wraps up for the weekend, it’s time to reflect on the latest performance and rankings of the league’s 14 teams. After analyzing the recent games, here’s how they stack up following Matchday 25.
1. Kansas City Current
Previous Rank: 1
The Current faced a setback with a 1-0 defeat against the Houston Dash. Unfortunately, the bigger concern is an injury to star forward Temwa Chawinga, who left the match in the first half with a non-contact injury. Kansas City head coach Vlatko Andonovski indicated the injury affected the “upper leg,” leaving fans anxiously awaiting further updates.
2. Washington Spirit
Previous Rank: 2
The Washington Spirit had a tough week, highlighted by a knee injury to Trinity Rodman during a Concacaf Champions Cup match against Monterrey. Adding to their woes, they were defeated by the Orlando Pride, turning a 2-1 halftime advantage into a disappointing 3-2 loss. Despite this, the focus remains on Rodman’s recovery and return to play.
3. Orlando Pride
Previous Rank: 4
At 39 years old, Marta proved she can still change a game as the Pride triumphed 3-2 over the Spirit. She played a pivotal role, earning an own goal from the opposition and netting the decisive penalty that secured three points. Her impactful presence turned the game around after she was subbed in at halftime.
4. NJ/NY Gotham FC
Previous Rank: 3
In a predictable matchup against Racing Louisville, Gotham FC controlled possession but ultimately settled for a 2-2 draw. The result was enough to secure a playoff berth, marking a successful campaign despite the stalemate.
5. Portland Thorns
Previous Rank: 5
Olivia Moultrie was the star for the Thorns once again, scoring twice in their 2-0 victory over Angel City. Her contributions were crucial in ensuring playoff qualification, with a long-range shot and a successful penalty securing the win.
6. San Diego Wave FC
Previous Rank: 7
The Wave made history with a dominant 6-1 victory over the Chicago Stars, scoring the most goals in a single match in franchise history. San Diego’s attack was relentless, ensuring their place in the postseason.
7. Seattle Reign FC
Previous Rank: 6
A narrow 2-1 victory over the Utah Royals clinched a playoff spot for the Reign, highlighted by Ainsley McCammon’s first NWSL goal. A late penalty conversion by Sofia Huerta ensured they maintained their lead during a testing match.
8. North Carolina Courage
Previous Rank: 9
Manaka Matsukubo was instrumental in the Courage’s 4-1 win against Bay FC, scoring a hat trick. Her impressive performance reaffirms her status as one of the league’s standout players this season.
9. Racing Louisville FC
Previous Rank: 8
In a bid for the playoffs, Louisville’s 2-2 draw with Gotham FC was disappointing, as they hoped for a win to secure their spot. An 85th-minute equalizer from Rose Lavelle prevented that from happening.
10. Houston Dash
Previous Rank: 11
Despite being outplayed, the Dash recorded a 1-0 win against the Kansas City Current, courtesy of Ryan Gareis’s goal shortly after coming off the bench. However, other results meant their playoff hopes remain slim.
11. Angel City FC
Previous Rank: 10
Unfortunately for Angel City, they were eliminated from playoff contention even before their match. They fell 2-0 to the Thorns, with this loss adding to a challenging season.
12. Utah Royals
Previous Rank: 12
After a promising streak, the Royals have now lost consecutive matches, including 2-1 against the Reign. With elimination from playoffs already secured, they are struggling for form.
13. Bay FC
Previous Rank: 13
Without playoff aspirations, Bay FC delivered a lackluster performance in a 4-1 defeat to the Courage. Their struggles were evident as they conceded early and failed to mount a comeback.
14. Chicago Stars FC
Previous Rank: 14
Facing another tough loss, Chicago was handily defeated 6-1 by San Diego. With the season wrapping up, they are focused on rebuilding for the future following a difficult campaign.
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