As the 2026 NWSL regular season progresses, it’s time for ESPN’s latest Power Rankings to reveal which teams are on the rise and which may be at risk of slipping down the standings. After analyzing the action from Matchday 8, our writers have ranked all 16 teams. Here’s a closer look at this week’s standings.
Previous ranking: 2
Next game: vs. Seattle Reign, May 30 at 6:30 p.m. ET
Despite suffering a 2-1 defeat to San Diego, the Washington Spirit has reclaimed the top spot in this week’s rankings. The match’s scoreline doesn’t reflect Washington’s performance, as they controlled nearly 60% of possession and effectively limited the Wave’s offensive threats. Notably, San Diego went over 30 minutes in the second half without registering a shot. All eyes will be on the Spirit’s response following their first loss since Week 1.
Previous ranking: 1
Next game: Houston Dash, Wednesday 8 p.m. ET
San Diego’s victory over Washington did not prevent a drop in the rankings. Trinity Byers’ stunning first goal of the season put the Wave in the lead just six minutes into the match. However, Washington quickly dominated play for much of the contest. San Diego managed to secure all three points thanks to Kimi Ascanio’s goal from a set piece in the 89th minute. The Wave has now won all six matches this season in which they scored first.
Highlights from the Editor
Previous ranking: 4
Next game: vs. Houston Dash, May 31 at 3 p.m. ET (live on ESPN+)
Gotham secured a 2-0 road victory against Seattle, maintaining their positive momentum and possession dominance. Jaydyn Shaw earned the game’s winning goal with a shot fired past goalkeeper Claudia Dickey, marking her fourth of the season. Tianna Davidson added a second goal from a set piece, becoming the fifth different Gotham player to find the net this season, an encouraging shift after earlier point struggles.
Previous ranking: 5
Next game: vs. Denver Summit, Saturday, 6:30 p.m. ET
Utah Royals triumphed over Louisville with a 2-1 win in the weekend’s finale. Despite dominating possession with over 60%, the Royals didn’t score until the 77th minute, partly due to an own goal by Louisville. The decisive goal showcased Cece Delzer’s prowess as she threaded a pass for Mina Tanaka, who finished effortlessly. With this victory, Utah remains unbeaten in eight matches, positioning them atop the league.
Previous ranking: 3
Next game: vs. Bay FC, Wednesday, 10 p.m. ET
Portland Thorns played to a 0-0 stalemate against Angel City in a match characterized by both teams’ struggle to break through. The absence of midfielder Olivia Moultrie, a key offensive player, due to a calf injury, was acutely felt; Portland managed only a single shot on target and registered 0.98 expected goals (xG). With two more players sustaining injuries during the match, Portland faces challenges ahead of their final fixture before the World Cup break.
Previous ranking: 8
Next game: Utah Royals, Saturday, 6:30 p.m. ET
After a resounding 3-1 victory over Orlando, the Denver Summit is climbing in the rankings, marking their first home win. Eva Gaetino’s inaugural career goal set the tone, but Janine Sonis proved pivotal with a second-half penalty and a subsequent insurance goal shortly after Orlando’s reply. Sonis’s contributions have accounted for a remarkable 33% of all goals scored by Denver this season, showcasing her importance to the team’s success.
Previous ranking: 7
Next game: Portland Thorns, Wednesday, 10 p.m. ET
Bay FC faced Boston in a tightly contested match, resulting in a 1-1 draw. Bay FC dominated offensively, generating extensive attacking sequences but only found the net once. A controversial foul led to a penalty kick, allowing Boston to equalize and rescue a point. Despite this setback, Bay FC looks to build on recent performances as they strive to avoid losing streaks.
Previous ranking: 11
Next game: Angel City, Wednesday, 10 p.m. ET
Kansas City staged an impressive display, shutting out Houston with a 3-0 victory, marking their third consecutive win. Temwa Chawinga stood out by netting multiple goals for the second game in a row, complemented by stellar performances from teammates Michelle Cooper and Croix Bethune. This surge in form has seen Kansas City recover from an earlier slow start to the season.
