Attendance Records and Unexpected Outcomes
The Chicago Red Stars set a new attendance record at Wrigley Field on Saturday night, drawing a large crowd of enthusiastic supporters. However, despite the fantastic turnout, fans were left disheartened as their team faced a third consecutive loss.
Bay FC managed to clinch a victory, a much-needed triumph that they hope will be a turning point in their season. While Chicago fans expressed disappointment, there remains a sense of optimism for future success. With plenty of time left in the season, teams still have opportunities 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. These platforms offer extensive coverage, ensuring that supporters can follow their favorite teams closely.
2024 NWSL Power Rankings
Orlando Pride
Orlando Pride’s impressive win streak came to an end with a draw against San Diego. Despite this minor setback, they steadfastly maintain the top spot in the rankings. Their consistent performance throughout the season has proven they won't be easily dethroned.
Kansas City Current
The Kansas City Current are on a remarkable 14-game unbeaten streak, dating back to the previous season. However, they suffered a significant loss with defender Gabrielle Robinson's ACL injury. On a positive note, forward Bia Zaneratto has returned to the pitch, bolstering their lineup. The team’s strategy appears to favor conceding goals if it means outscoring their opponents, making for exciting matches ahead.
Washington Spirit
Washington Spirit’s rookie class has been nothing short of spectacular. Defender Kate Wiesner delivered a game-winner on the road, extending their win streak to four consecutive games. The infusion of young talent has become a cornerstone of their success.
NJ/NY Gotham FC
The reigning champions, NJ/NY Gotham FC, are quietly ascending the rankings and league table. Ella Stevens has started earning consistent starting roles, while veterans like Crystal Dunn and Rose Lavelle continue to contribute crucial goals. Gotham FC’s team depth will be an invaluable asset as the season progresses.
Portland Thorns FC
Portland Thorns FC’s Sophia Smith remains a standout player, adding more goals to her season total. Unfortunately, she will miss the next match due to a second yellow card for delaying the game. The Thorns will need to adjust their strategy in her absence.
Racing Louisville
Racing Louisville appears to be turning a corner during a critical time in the season. With two consecutive wins and an unbeaten streak spanning three games, the team shows potential. Although their six draws have not been ideal, they have avoided losses, positioning themselves as possible second-half-of-the-season disruptors.
North Carolina Courage
North Carolina Courage has shown improvement, experimenting with a fluctuating back formation. However, they suffered their fourth loss in five games. With Ryan Williams on a red card suspension and the return of Denise O'Sullivan, the team faces a challenging period.
San Diego Wave FC
San Diego Wave FC continues to struggle with goal scoring. Makenzie Doniak's equalizer against Orlando Pride was a positive moment, but the team’s difficulty executing tactics in the final third remains a concern.
Chicago Red Stars
The Chicago Red Stars have encountered their third consecutive loss. The team struggles to get Mallory Swanson the ball effectively, necessitating tactical adjustments to reverse their fortunes.
Angel City FC
Angel City FC appears unsure of their identity, as their lack of results mounts. This underperformance is putting increasing pressure on the coaching staff to find solutions and achieve better outcomes.
Houston Dash
Houston Dash failed to capitalize on their recent momentum. The team's three-player back formation faced significant challenges against Racing Louisville, highlighting areas that need improvement.
Bay FC
Bay FC hopes that their victory against Chicago will serve as a turning point for the season. Despite failing to secure a clean sheet and conceding a goal in stoppage time, the win gave them a much-needed confidence boost.
Seattle Reign FC
Seattle Reign FC is enduring a painful first half of the season, compounded by navigating an ownership change. The team will need to stabilize and regroup to improve their standings as the season progresses.
Utah Royals FC
Utah Royals FC failed to score against the Washington Spirit at home, extending their winless streak since March. With a 10-game losing run, the team is desperately seeking ways to turn things around.
Fans can catch select NWSL regular season matches across CBS, CBS Sports Network, Paramount+, and CBS Sports Golazo Network. This extensive coverage ensures that supporters can stay up to date with all the compelling NWSL action throughout the season.