NWSL 2025 Week 1 Power Rankings: Orlando Pride Dominates, Teams to Watch

NWSL 2025 Week 1 Recap

The 2025 NWSL season has officially begun, and the opening week provided plenty of excitement and surprises. ESPN's Power Rankings are back to break down the performance of all 14 teams. Here's a detailed look at how each team fared in their first match.

1. Orlando Pride

The Orlando Pride sent a clear message to the league with a dominant 6-0 victory over the Chicago Stars. Barbra Banda was instrumental, scoring two goals, including a spectacular strike. After securing a double win last season, the Pride looks even stronger this year. The rest of the league should be wary.

Next Match: Sunday, March 23 vs. NJ/NY Gotham FC, 5 p.m. ET (Stream live on ESPN+)

2. Kansas City Current

Kansas City Current started their season with a solid 3-1 win against Portland Thorns. Temwa Chawinga and Michelle Cooper shone brightly, and Debinha was in top form. Despite some lapses in the second half, the team showed why they are a force to be reckoned with.

Next Match: Saturday, March 22 vs. Washington Spirit, 7:30 p.m. ET

3. Washington Spirit

Despite a shaky start and several key players missing, the Washington Spirit managed a 2-1 win over Houston Dash. Trinity Rodman's limited playtime and Hal Hershfelt's injury were concerns, but the team’s depth and coach Jonatan Giráldez’s strategy kept them afloat.

Next Match: Saturday, March 22 vs. KC Current, 7:30 p.m. ET

4. NJ/NY Gotham FC

Gotham FC held their own in a 1-1 draw with Seattle Reign. Gabi Portilho’s stunning goal was a highlight, and the team’s defense looked solid despite some disciplinary issues. A point away from home is a good start for a team in transition.

Next Match: Sunday, March 23 vs. Orlando Pride, 5 p.m. ET (Stream live on ESPN+)

5. Seattle Reign FC

Seattle Reign FC drew 1-1 with Gotham FC, showing improvements in their midfield and defense. While their attack still needs work, the team looks more organized than last season. Lynn Biyendolo’s return could be the spark they need.

Next Match: Saturday, March 22 vs. NC Courage, 7 p.m. ET

6. North Carolina Courage

North Carolina Courage earned a 1-1 draw against Racing Louisville. The trio of Jaedyn Shaw, Ashley Sanchez, and Manaka Matsukubo had some bright moments but need time to gel. Once they do, they could be unstoppable.

Next Match: Saturday, March 22 vs. Seattle Reign, 7 p.m. ET

7. Utah Royals

Utah Royals’ defense was solid in their 1-1 draw with San Diego Wave. Mandy McGlynn’s assist for Bianca St-Georges’ goal was a standout moment. The team needs to find more attacking ideas to complement their strong defense.

Next Match: Saturday, March 22 vs. San Diego Wave, 10 p.m. ET

8. Houston Dash

Houston Dash showed promise despite a 2-1 loss to Washington Spirit. Rookie Maggie Graham scored, and the team looked more cohesive than last season. There’s optimism for improvement.

Next Match: Sunday, March 23 vs. Chicago Stars, 5 p.m. ET

9. Racing Louisville FC

Racing Louisville dominated the first half but slumped in the second, resulting in a 1-1 draw with North Carolina Courage. Their early play was impressive, and they could be playoff contenders if they maintain that level.

Next Match: Saturday, March 22 vs. Bay FC, 10 p.m. ET

10. Bay FC

Bay FC’s rookie Taylor Huff lived up to the hype in a 1-1 draw with Utah Royals. Their defense was strong, but the attack needs more creativity. Kiki Pickett’s goal was a bright spot.

Next Match: Saturday, March 22 vs. Racing Louisville, 10 p.m. ET

11. Portland Thorns

Portland Thorns struggled in a 3-1 loss to Kansas City Current. They showed some fighting spirit in the second half but need to address their defensive issues quickly.

Next Match: Friday, March 21 vs. Angel City FC, 10 p.m. ET

12. Angel City FC

Angel City FC drew 1-1 with San Diego Wave. Youngsters Kennedy Fuller and Alyssa Thompson combined for a beautiful goal. The team needs to find the right balance between youth and experience.

Next Match: Friday, March 21 vs. Portland Thorns, 10 p.m. ET

13. San Diego Wave FC

San Diego Wave’s tactical approach earned them a 1-1 draw with Angel City FC. Gia Corley’s early goal was crucial. It’s a positive start after a tumultuous offseason.

Next Match: Saturday, March 22 vs. Utah Royals, 10 p.m. ET

14. Chicago Stars FC

Chicago Stars had a nightmare start with a 6-0 loss to Orlando Pride. Their defense was overwhelmed, and the attack was non-existent without Mallory Swanson. Improvements are urgently needed.

Next Match: Sunday, March 23 vs. Houston Dash, 5 p.m. ET

Stay tuned for more updates and in-depth analysis as the 2025 NWSL season unfolds!