NWSL Power Rankings: Utah Royals Shine as Gotham FC Holds Top Spot

The National Women's Soccer League saw some surprising action this week. Sam Kerr led Gotham FC to two wins, the Utah Royals overwhelmed the Portland Thorns with five goals, and the North Carolina Courage made a strong return to the spotlight with a commanding 5-0 victory over the Orlando Pride.

The midweek fixtures caused quite a stir, especially for Kansas City Current, who experienced both highs and lows. They hammered Racing Louisville with five goals but could only manage a 1-1 draw against Angel City in their second match of the week.

The Washington Spirit continue to look like favorites for the Shield, holding onto a narrow 1-0 win over the Utah Royals midweek. Despite losing to San Diego Wave on Sunday, Washington still ranks among the league's strongest teams. Forward Trinity Rodman has been impressive, scoring eight goals and climbing into the Golden Boot race. Meanwhile, Orlando Pride's Barbra Banda leads with 12 goals despite currently competing in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations with Zambia.

Offense was on display across the league. After losing to Washington, Utah Royals bounced back spectacularly with a 5-1 win over Portland Thorns. The North Carolina Courage also sent a clear message, demolishing Orlando 5-0.

Even with an increasing injury list that now includes Emily Sonnett, sidelined for the season, Gotham FC found ways to win. They defeated Bay FC 1-0 midweek and edged out the Houston Dash thanks to Sam Kerr's efforts.

Current NWSL Power Rankings

16. Chicago StarsLast: 16Result: Lost 2-1 vs Racing LouisvilleThey still struggle with consistency. Their narrow defeat means chances to climb the table are slipping away.
15. Racing LouisvilleLast: 15Result: Won 2-1 vs Chicago StarsA much-needed win brings them to 14 points, though they remain near the bottom.
14. Boston LegacyLast: 12Result: 1-1 Draw vs Denver SummitScored first but conceded a penalty late. They sit just below Denver in 12th place.
13. Denver SummitLast: 13Result: 1-1 Draw vs Boston LegacyDefensive mistakes kept Boston in it, but a penalty equalizer earned a point. They need more results and goals soon.
12. Kansas City CurrentLast: 14Result: 1-1 Draw vs Angel CityMissed a chance to build momentum, settling for a draw against an eager Angel City squad.
11. Orlando PrideLast: 9Result: Lost 5-0 vs North Carolina CourageOutplayed badly, raising questions about their recent progress. Talent is there, but confidence may have taken a hit.
10. Bay FCLast: 11Result: Lost 3-2 vs Seattle ReignOffense shows promise but defensive lapses cost them again. Abby Dahlkemper returned from maternity leave, which is encouraging.
9. Houston DashLast: 10Result: Lost 1-0 vs Gotham FCKept a strong attack in check for stretches but still struggled to score. They need more consistent threat in the final third.
8. Angel CityLast: 8Result: 1-1 Draw vs Kansas City CurrentNeeds better attacking consistency. With world-class talent like Ally Sentnor and Sveindís Jane Jónsdóttir, they should convert more chances.
7. Seattle ReignLast: 6Result: Won 3-2 vs Bay FCShowing resilience and firepower with goals from Mia Fishel, Jess Fishlock, and Maddie Dahlien to secure a hard-fought win.
6. Portland ThornsLast: 4Result: Lost 5-1 vs Utah RoyalsOverwhelmed from kickoff, raising concerns about defense. They haven't conceded five goals since March 16, 2024.
5. North Carolina CourageLast: 8Result: Won 5-0 vs Orlando PrideA dominating performance that may shift perceptions. Ashley Sanchez and company showed they can overpower opponents quickly, boosting playoff hopes.
4. San Diego WaveLast: 5Result: Won 1-0 vs Washington SpiritShut down one of the league's best teams with Lia Godfrey securing the win. A statement victory for sure.
3. Washington SpiritLast: 1Result: Lost 1-0 vs San Diego WaveTheir first-place spot slipped after struggling to break down San Diego's defense. Still second with 36 points, just behind Gotham.
2. Utah RoyalsLast: 3Result: Won 5-1 vs Portland ThornsThis emphatic win signals Utah belongs among the league's elite. They sit third with 33 points.
1. Gotham FCLast: 2Result: Won 1-0 vs Houston DashDespite injuries, Gotham continues to impress. The narrow win showcases their control and ability to find decisive moments in tight matches.