NWSL Power Rankings: Rodman puts Spirit on top, ahead of league-leading Wave

It’s Monday, marking the return of the NWSL regular season as teams resume competition post the men’s FIFA World Cup 2026. ESPN’s Power Rankings are out, revealing which teams are rising and which ones might be falling as we reflect on Matchday 11.

Spirit’s Triumph

Previous ranking: 2
Next match: at North Carolina Courage, Saturday, 6:30 p.m. ET

Trinity Rodman shone brightly this weekend, contributing significantly to the Spirit’s 2-1 win over Houston with a stoppage-time goal, her fifth career regular-season brace. This victory marks the Spirit’s seventh win in eight matches, and Rodman has shown remarkable form with five goal contributions in her last four home games. Notably, the Spirit holds two games in hand over first-place San Diego and second-place Portland.

San Diego and Portland Stand Tall

Previous ranking: 4
Next match: vs. Angel City, Saturday, 8:45 p.m. ET

San Diego managed a 2-0 victory over Gotham despite missing top scorer Dudinha, who suffered an ACL injury. Teenager Melanie Barcenas scored with a long-range effort, and Trinity Byars added an insurance goal to secure their top position in the standings. Meanwhile, Previous ranking: 7
Next match: at Seattle Reign, Sunday, 4 p.m. ET

The Portland Thorns returned from the summer break with a commanding 4-0 win over Louisville, showcasing their attacking prowess as they lead the league with 24 goals. Sophia Wilson marked her 50th career goal, becoming the youngest player in NWSL history to reach this milestone.

Previous ranking: 1
Next match: vs. Gotham FC, Friday, 10 p.m. ET

After a strong start to the season, Utah faced its first loss in weeks, falling 3-2 to Chicago. This defeat ended their impressive 11-game unbeaten streak. The Royals struggled after conceding the opening goal once again.

Emerging Trends

Previous ranking: 5
Next match: at Orlando Pride, Friday, 8 p.m. ET

Last year’s Shield winners, the Current, displayed a strong performance with a 3-0 victory over Denver, hinting at a return to form. Michelle Cooper scored her first career brace, while Temwa Chawinga continued her scoring streak.

North Carolina kept its momentum with a 3-1 triumph over Seattle, securing a fourth consecutive win despite losing last season’s Midfielder of the Year, Manaka Matsukobo, to Chelsea.

Previous ranking: 10
Next match: vs. Portland Thorns, Sunday, 4 p.m. ET

Orlando struggled offensively, ending their match against Angel City in a 2-0 defeat. Their efforts to break through offensively were stunted, as they registered a season-low five shots.

FAQs

What team is leading the NWSL right now?

San Diego Wave holds the first-place position in NWSL after their latest victory.

When is the NWSL regular season scheduled to resume?

The NWSL regular season is back underway following the men’s FIFA World Cup 2026.