Attendance Record Shattered at Wrigley Field
The Chicago Red Stars set a new attendance record at Wrigley Field on Saturday night, bringing in a remarkable crowd that filled the iconic stadium. Despite the electric atmosphere generated by the home fans, the Red Stars faced a tough challenge. Bay FC managed to clinch a victory, leaving Chicago's fans disappointed yet hopeful for future success.
The season is still young, and there is plenty of time for teams to shake up the rankings and make significant moves. Fans can catch select NWSL regular season matches across CBS, CBS Sports Network, Paramount+, and CBS Sports Golazo Network.
2024 NWSL Power Rankings: Top Teams Hold Their Ground
Orlando Pride
Orlando Pride’s impressive win streak came to a halt with a draw against San Diego. However, the team remains steadfast at the top spot thanks to their consistent performance. Detroning them won't be an easy task for any opponent.
Kansas City Current
The Kansas City Current are on a remarkable 14-game unbeaten streak extending back to last season. Despite losing defender Gabrielle Robinson to an ACL injury, their squad has been bolstered by the return of forward Bia Zaneratto. Kansas City's strategy seems to be willing to concede goals if they can outscore their opponents, a tactic that has paid off so far.
Washington Spirit
Washington Spirit’s rookie class has been a revelation this season. Defender Kate Wiesner delivered a game-winning performance on the road, extending their win streak to four consecutive games. The young talent in the squad is proving to be an invaluable asset.
NJ/NY Gotham FC
The reigning champions, NJ/NY Gotham FC, are quietly ascending in both the power rankings and the league table. Ella Stevens has been earning starting roles, while veterans like Crystal Dunn and Rose Lavelle are contributing crucial goals. Gotham FC’s depth will be a key factor as the season progresses.
Portland Thorns FC
Sophia Smith continues to impress, adding more goals to her season tally. Unfortunately, Smith will miss the next match due to a second yellow card for delaying the game. The Thorns will need to adjust their lineup to cope with her absence.
Mid-Season Struggles and Emerging Hope
Racing Louisville
Racing Louisville is turning a corner at a critical time. They have secured two consecutive wins and are unbeaten in three games. While their six draws haven't been ideal, they are not losses either. The potential for Racing Louisville to become second-half-of-the-season wreckers is very much there.
North Carolina Courage
North Carolina Courage has shown improvement with a fluctuating backline. However, they have picked up their fourth loss in five games. Ryan Williams is currently on a red card suspension, but Denise O'Sullivan's return to the pitch provides a glimmer of hope for the team.
San Diego Wave FC
San Diego Wave FC continues to struggle with goal scoring. Makenzie Doniak managed to score an equalizer against Orlando Pride, but the team is finding it challenging to execute tactics effectively in the final third of the pitch.
Chicago Red Stars
The Chicago Red Stars are grappling with a tough phase, having faced their third consecutive loss. The team is struggling to get Mallory Swanson the ball, and this inability to utilize one of their key players is hampering their performance.
Angel City FC
Angel City FC seems to be unsure of their identity. The lack of results is increasing pressure on the coach, making it imperative for them to find their footing soon.
Houston Dash
Despite their efforts, Houston Dash failed to capitalize on their momentum. The three-player back formation struggled against Racing Louisville, leading to challenging moments on the field.
Teams Hoping for a Turnaround
Bay FC
Bay FC is hopeful that their win against Chicago can serve as a turning point. Although they failed to secure a clean sheet and conceded a goal in stoppage time, the victory provides a much-needed boost.
Seattle Reign FC
Seattle Reign FC is enduring a painful first half of the season, compounded by an ongoing ownership change. These off-field issues are likely affecting their on-field performance.
Utah Royals FC
Utah Royals FC’s struggles continue as they failed to score against the Washington Spirit at home. Their winless streak, extending since March, has now reached 10 games. The Royals need a significant shift in strategy to break free from their losing run.
Fans can continue to follow the NWSL action on CBS, CBS Sports Network, Paramount+, and CBS Sports Golazo Network.