NWSL Power Rankings: Week 6

For the first time ever, every single team moved from the previous week of power rankings. After 6 weeks, we have a new team at the top.

May 10, 2023

Week 6

OL Reign (+1) - Jordyn Huitema has scored in back to back games. Including the Challenge Cup, she has scored 3 of her last 4 matches. The Reign domination at home is well documented, but can they keep that going on the road? They are the top team in the power rankings for the first time all season and could hold this spot for weeks.
Portland Thorns (-1) - In two games without Becky Sauerbrunn, the team has given up 6 goals. In all games previously with her, they only surrendered 2 goals. However, this team has only allowed an xG of 0.97 and 1.05 the past two games. Expect this to reflect in the scoreline sooner rather than later. This defense will get better, but it takes everyone including the midfield to help out. Could we see Moultrie, Rocky, and/or Nally get more starts or opportunities?
Washington Spirit (+1) - Trinity Rodman and Tara McKeown were lights out against San Diego. Rodman made light work of an elite backline and goalkeeper. This was their best game of the season. McKeown’s move to the backline has paid off for Mark Parsons and the Spirit. Is this offensive output something that they can consistently put forward? They are tied for 6th in scoring.
NJ/NY Gotham FC (+1) - Gotham rebounded with an unconvincing win over Chicago. This team has consistently played down to their competition and it could catch up to them. Lynn Williams in her first season after her injury, has been playing some of the best football of her career. If you haven’t already, check out her podcast with Sam Mewis, SNACKS. It is so good and you’ll love it.
San Diego Wave (-1) - The wake up call was not received. San Diego have been playing bad football the past few weeks — their team looks lost. Casey Stoney and San Diego are going to figure this out… eventually.
Angel City FC (+3) - Alyssa Thompson will be heading to the WWC, she’s that darn good. ACFC held on for the 3-2 win at home against KCC. They got goals from their entire frontline of Thompson, Endo, and Emslie. Coombe has them playing their best attacking football ever with 3 goals in back to back games (they only scored 3 goals or more once last year).
Houston Dash (-1) - Where are the goals? Where is the offense? Where is the midfield? The frontline needs help and they aren’t getting it.
Racing Louisville (-1) - One of the worst performances we’ve seen from the side in a very long time. They have yet to win a game. Sav Demelo is the best player on this team and they missed her big time against Orlando.
Kansas City Current (-1) - Caroline Sjöblom and KCC suffered their first loss with her in charge. This was an ugly display defensively, but tremendous fight to nearly get the draw after being down three goals at the half.
North Carolina Courage (+1) - NCC is one of the toughest teams to face and had a chance to beat the reigning NWSL champions before settling for a point.
Orlando Pride (+1) - That’s two consecutive wins in a row for Seb Hines and Orlando Pride. Their win over Racing Louisville was their first at home this season after a upset win at San Diego last week. Messiah Bright continues to shine and make all teams look silly for passing up on her.
Chicago Red Stars (-2) - This team’s three back system just isn’t working and does not suit their personnel at all. They have the worst defense in the league by three goals.

*Key: Teams with (+ or -) moved up or down from last week’s rankings

Tier 1: OL Reign, Portland, Washington
Tier 2: Gotham, San Diego, Angel City
Tier 3: Houston, Racing Louisville, Kansas City
Tier 4: North Carolina, Orlando, Chicago

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