NWSL Power Rankings: San Diego Wave FC enters forcefully
According to Cbssports.
Context
Gotham FC, currently at the top of the table, faces a difficult challenge against the Washington Spirit, while San Diego Wave FC, after a convincing victory, is mathematically qualified for the playoffs. Their current form suggests that both teams could play a key role in the title race, especially with FIFA WM 2026 set to influence player choices in the coming years.
Why it matters
The battle for the playoffs in the NWSL is heating up, with Gotham FC and San Diego Wave FC vying for top spots. Gotham's win against the Chicago Red Stars strengthened their position, while the Wave's dominant performance against the Portland Thorns demonstrated their strength in attack. Both teams are now in the running for the title, making every game crucial to their path to the postseason.
Key points
- NWSL Power Rankings: San Diego Wave FC enters forcefully.
- The fight for the playoffs is more heated than ever, with teams competing for the last available positions in the post season.
- NWSL Power Rankings: San Diego Wave FC crashes NWSL Shield party, as Gotham FC aim to hold on to top spot.
-
Gotham FC Gotham won the match against Chicago Red Stars 2-1. Scott Parkinson's team showed good defense with a super performance from Kaylin Uhls, who also saved a penalty. Gotham now has to face two consecutive away games, the most difficult will be the one in Washington where it will face the Spirit in the next round. The match will also be fundamental for the fight for first place in the power rankings.
-
San Diego Wave FC
With a super performance, the Wave won 4-1 against the Portland Thorns. Casey Stoney's team was devastating in attack and proved to be a formidable opponent in view of the playoffs. San Diego is now mathematically qualified for the playoffs and has also secured the best possible position for access to the playoff bracket. The Wave will face Angel City FC in a Los Angeles derby in the next round. -
North Carolina Courage
The Courage got a good draw away against the Orlando Pride 2-2. Although it wasn't a brilliant performance, Sean Nahas' team continues to collect points and remains in the playoff zone. In the next round, the Courage will host the Houston Dash. -
Washington Spirit
The Spirit came out defeated from the difficult trip to San Diego where they lost 4-1. Greg Ranjitsingh's team, despite the defeat, remains in the playoff zone but must be careful, as there are now several teams fighting for a place in the post season. In the next round, the Spirit will host Gotham FC in a crucial match for both teams.

-
Houston Dash
The Dash won 1-0 against Angel City FC thanks to a goal from Michelle Alozie. Sam Laity's team has taken an important step towards reaching the playoffs, but for them too every match will now be fundamental. In the next round, the Dash will be hosted by the North Carolina Courage. -
Chicago Red Stars
The Red Stars lost at home to Gotham FC 2-1. Estrada's team continues to disappoint and show a poor performance. In the next round, the Red Stars will play on the road against Kansas City. -
Kansas City Current
The Current lost at home to San Francisco Bay FC 1-0. Matt Potter's team is going through a bad period and is unable to obtain useful results. In the next round, the Currents will host the Chicago Red Stars. -
Angel City FC
Angel City FC lost 1-0 on the road to the Houston Dash. Freya Coombe's team is unable to find consistency in results and is now mathematically excluded from the playoff race. In the next round, Angel City FC will play at home against the San Diego Wave.
What happens now
Gotham FC will face two consecutive away games, with the next match against the Washington Spirit which could prove decisive for their position in the standings. On the other hand, San Diego Wave FC prepares for a Los Angeles derby against Angel City FC, where a win would further solidify their playoff position. With only three matchdays remaining, each match will have a significant impact on power rankings and teams' futures in the NWSL.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the score of the match between Gotham FC and Chicago Red Stars?
Gotham FC won the match against Chicago Red Stars 2-1.
What impact does San Diego Wave FC's victory have on the standings?
San Diego Wave FC is mathematically qualified for the playoffs and has secured the best possible position for access to the playoff bracket.
When will Gotham FC play its next match?
Gotham FC will face the Washington Spirit in the next round.
What is the score of the match between San Diego Wave FC and Portland Thorns?
San Diego Wave FC won 4-1 against the Portland Thorns.
What's the next game for San Diego Wave FC?
San Diego Wave FC will face Angel City FC in a Los Angeles derby in the next round.