NWSL Power Rankings: Week 9 Highlights

1. Kansas City Current

Previous ranking: 1 Next match: Saturday, May 24 vs. Chicago Stars, 7:30 p.m. ET

In a tightly contested match, the Kansas City Current secured a 1-0 victory over the Orlando Pride, thanks to a decisive goal from Temwa Chawinga. Her blistering speed and precision were on full display as she capitalized on a defensive error to seal the win. Kansas City remains a formidable force in the NWSL.

2. Orlando Pride

Previous ranking: 2 Next match: Friday, May 23 vs. Utah Royals, 9:30 p.m. ET

The Pride put up a strong fight but fell short due to a critical defensive lapse. Despite the loss, their performance against the league leaders shows they remain a top contender.

3. San Diego Wave FC

Previous ranking: 4 Next match: Sunday, May 25 vs. NC Courage, 10 p.m. ET

San Diego Wave FC continued their impressive form with a 1-0 victory over NJ/NY Gotham FC. Their control of possession and defensive solidity have been key to their recent success.

4. NJ/NY Gotham FC

Previous ranking: 3 Next match: Saturday, June 7 vs. KC Current, 1 p.m. ET

Gotham FC's struggles in front of goal continued as they failed to score in their third consecutive match. Their attacking issues need immediate attention if they are to climb the rankings.

5. Portland Thorns

Previous ranking: 5 Next match: Saturday, June 7 vs. Bay FC, 7:30 p.m. ET

The Thorns showcased their attacking prowess with a 4-1 thrashing of the Houston Dash. Pietra Tordin's debut start was marked by a goal, signaling a bright future for the young forward.

6. Washington Spirit

Previous ranking: 6 Next match: Friday, May 23 vs. Seattle Reign, 10 p.m. ET

The Spirit's attacking flair was evident in a thrilling 3-3 draw with the Utah Royals. Despite defensive lapses, their ability to score late goals keeps them in the hunt.

7. Seattle Reign FC

Previous ranking: 8 Next match: Friday, May 23 vs. Washington Spirit, 10 p.m. ET

Seattle Reign FC continued their trend of narrow victories with a 1-0 win over Racing Louisville. Their ability to grind out results is a testament to their resilience.

8. North Carolina Courage

Previous ranking: 10 Next match: Sunday, May 25 vs. San Diego Wave, 10 p.m. ET

The Courage are on an upward trajectory, securing a 2-0 win over the Chicago Stars. Their recent form suggests they could be a dark horse in the league.

9. Angel City FC

Previous ranking: 7 Next match: Saturday, May 24 vs. Racing Louisville, 10 p.m. ET

Angel City FC struggled in a 2-0 loss to Bay FC, despite the return of Christen Press. They need to regroup quickly to stay competitive.

10. Racing Louisville FC

Previous ranking: 9 Next match: Saturday, May 24 vs. Angel City, 10 p.m. ET

Racing Louisville's inability to convert chances cost them dearly in a 1-0 loss to Seattle Reign FC. They must improve their finishing to avoid falling further.

11. Bay FC

Previous ranking: 12 Next match: Saturday, May 24 vs. Houston Dash, 5 p.m. ET

Bay FC returned to winning ways with a 2-0 victory over Angel City FC. Their defensive improvements were key to securing the win.

12. Houston Dash

Previous ranking: 11 Next match: Saturday, May 24 vs. Bay FC, 5 p.m. ET

The Dash's defensive woes continued in a 4-1 loss to the Portland Thorns. Poor goalkeeping and defensive lapses have been their Achilles' heel.

13. Utah Royals

Previous ranking: 14 Next match: Friday, May 23 vs. Orlando Pride, 9:30 p.m. ET

The Utah Royals showed resilience in a 3-3 draw with the Washington Spirit. Mandy McGlynn's heroics in goal were crucial in earning a point.

14. Chicago Stars FC

Previous ranking: 13 Next match: Saturday, May 24 vs. KC Current, 7:30 p.m. ET

The Chicago Stars' struggles continued with a 2-0 loss to the North Carolina Courage. They remain at the bottom of the table with only one win this season.