NWSL Power Rankings: May 2026 Update
Season Overview
The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) regular season is hitting its stride, and unpredictability has become the new norm. As teams navigate the quartermark of the schedule, power shifts are unfolding week to week. From surprising upsets to dominant performances, these May power rankings capture the current hierarchy in the NWSL.
Early Season Power Shifts
• Boston Legacy FC’s Physical Edge
– The expansion side has overcome early setbacks, stringing together dramatic come-from-behind victories.
– Leads the league in fouls committed (145) and tackles made (206), showcasing a physical style that opponents struggle to match.
• Washington Spirit’s Deep Roster
– A balanced lineup across defense, midfield, and attack makes the Spirit the team to beat.
– “Jose the Coyote,” the team’s new good-luck mascot, has coincided with standout performances from Rebeca Bernal, Leicy Santos and Hal Hershfelt.
– Coach Adrian Gonzalez’s midseason reinforcements—Andi Sullivan and Deb Abiodun—add even more depth to an already potent midfield.
Top Three Teams in the Rankings
- Washington Spirit
• Week-to-week impact players across every line make the Spirit the most dangerous squad in the league.
• Able to grind out tight contests, produce blowouts and adapt to any result.
- Portland Thorns
• Sophia Wilson’s return to scoring form offers relief, but Portland must avoid becoming a one-woman show.
• A resilient side that bounces back quickly from mistakes.
- San Diego Wave FC
• Southern California rivals shine under Brazilian international Dudinha’s creativity.
• The Wave have the confidence to snap out of slumps when facing fierce competition.
Teams on the Upswing
Kansas City Current
• Temwa Chawinga continues to dazzle with her game-changing hat trick performances.
• A two-spot jump reflects Kansas City’s growing momentum.
Utah Royals FC
• Midfield dominance is translating into consistent results.
• The Royals’ collective performances make them impossible to ignore.
Denver Summit FC
• Janine Sonis and Yazmeen Ryan delivered standout showings, fueling a two-spot rise.
• Consistency remains the next step for continued upward movement.
NJ/NY Gotham FC
• Jaedyn Shaw’s production is crucial, but lapses after goalscoring remind Gotham to maintain momentum.
• Rose Lavelle’s availability will be key to sustaining form.
Struggling Sides to Watch
Seattle Reign
• Offensive woes persist despite a stalwart defense anchored by Claudia Dickey.
• The Reign must find end-product solutions to reclaim contender status.
Chicago Stars FC
• Bottom of the league in goals scored (4), assists (2) and standings.
• A new head coach and roster additions haven’t fixed scoring or defensive shape.
Bay FC
• Defensive improvements under goalkeeper Jordan Silkowitz earn a minor bump.
• Attack remains unsettled as new coach Emma Coates works to find tempo controllers.
Houston Dash
• Current form slump highlights lingering inconsistencies.
• Must rediscover early-season rhythm to climb back into contention.
Angel City FC
• Hot start now a distant memory, attack has flatlined.
• Low expected goals (9.64) underline offensive struggles.
What to Watch Next
As the 2026 NWSL season unfolds, keep an eye on these storylines:
• Washington Spirit’s roster depth and the impact of midseason reinforcements.
• Boston Legacy FC’s physical approach and its effect on opposing strategies.
• Portland Thorns’ ability to diversify goal-scoring beyond Sophia Wilson.
• Chicago Stars FC’s search for a breakthrough to climb out of the league’s basement.
Stay tuned for next week’s NWSL power rankings as teams continue to jostle for position in a season defined by unpredictability and excitement.