NWSL Power Rankings: NJ/NY Gotham FC Continue to Rise; Kansas City Current Remain the Class of the League

With only a few weeks left in the 2025 NWSL regular season, the competition is intensifying. Week 20 provided a glimpse into the playoffs as Kansas City Current and the Washington Spirit, two of the league`s top teams, played to a scoreless draw, underscoring their dominance. The Spirit aim to boost their points tally in their upcoming match against Angel City FC on Thursday. Angel City FC, currently three points below the playoff threshold, urgently needs a decisive victory.

The playoff landscape is far from settled; only Kansas City Current has secured a postseason berth. However, the other 13 teams are fiercely competing to keep their playoff hopes alive as the season nears its end. This ongoing battle is reflected in the NWSL Power Rankings. Surprisingly, some teams considered longshots for the playoffs are climbing the ranks, while certain presumed contenders are faltering.

As Week 21 approaches, the question remains: which teams will ascend and which will decline? Don`t miss any of the upcoming action.

2025 NWSL Power Rankings

Here`s how the league stacks up as Week 21 approaches:

1. Kansas City Current (–)

Kansas City Current appeared somewhat vulnerable in Temwa Chawinga`s absence. However, they also displayed a fierce determination to prove their status as the league`s dominant force. While resting Chawinga`s knee until the playoffs might be a strategic move, the team must develop alternative scoring methods without her on the field.

2. Washington Spirit (–)

Even if the NWSL Shield is beyond their grasp, the Washington Spirit are demonstrating serious intent with key players rising to the occasion. Midfielder Leicy Santos showcased her strong defensive skills alongside her creative play, while Tara McKeown highlighted why she is a strong contender for future NWSL Defender of the Year honors.

3. Portland Thorns FC (–)

Portland Thorns FC is competing fiercely against teams hitting their stride. Despite possibly feeling they`ve squandered some scoring chances recently, this hasn`t significantly impacted their standing in the rankings.

4. Seattle Reign FC (+1)

Seattle Reign FC executed a clever “snatch and grab” win at a crucial moment. While concerns about their goal-scoring ability persist, the presence of veteran midfielder Jess Fishlock as a reliable emergency option is invaluable.

5. Gotham FC (+2)

Gotham FC is undoubtedly peaking at the ideal moment, making their late-season surge appear effortless. Esther Gonzalez is currently leading the Golden Boot race, and midfielder Jaelin Howell consistently contributes to goals while also effectively disrupting opposing teams.

6. Orlando Pride (-2)

Jacqueline Ovalle, a recent acquisition, made an impact with her first NWSL career assist. This contribution is particularly timely given Orlando Pride`s rapid decline in performance during the final stretch of the season.

7. San Diego Wave (+2)

San Diego Wave finds itself struggling, much like Orlando, with a noticeable lack of goal-scoring and a passive playing style. This raises questions about the strong team they were in the first half of the season and what has changed since then.

8. Racing Louisville (–)

It was a challenging week for Racing Louisville, a team that has managed to keep pace with some of the league`s stronger contenders. We extend our thoughts and positive wishes to Savannah DeMelo for her recovery following a medical incident in Week 20.

9. Chicago Stars FC (+1)

Chicago Stars FC holds the unique distinction of being unbeaten since the summer break, making them an undesirable opponent as they strategize for the next season. This team embodies a resilient, hard-working, “blue-collar” ethos.

10. Houston Dash (-1)

The Dash had an impressive six-week run but unfortunately faltered against another determined opponent. Similar to other teams, they seemed to struggle with the altitude, but resilient teams can recover, and that`s Houston`s next challenge.

11. Utah Royals FC (+1)

Paige Monaghan continues her excellent form for Utah Royals FC, finding the net once more. In this game, the team displayed greater control and dominance compared to their previous gritty draws.

12. North Carolina Courage (+2)

North Carolina Courage exemplifies a never-say-die attitude, prominently showcased by midfielder Brianna Pinto. The team was in need of a momentum-changing display, which they seemingly achieved through the combined efforts of Pinto and Manaka Matsukubo.

13. Bay FC (–)

Bay FC`s position in the rankings is largely sustained by the exceptional performance of goalkeeper Jordan Silkowitz, who delivered a masterclass in goal. Her efforts, combined with Racheal Kundenanji`s relentless play, ultimately yielded results.

14. Angel City FC (-3)

Angel City FC remains in contention for the playoffs, but their recent performances don`t exude confidence as the season winds down. They desperately needed a strong showing but instead delivered a disappointing one.