The NWSL is back for another promising year as women's soccer continues to pave its rising path. The 2025 NWSL season will kick off on Friday, March 14.
Last season, Orlando Pride had an extraordinary season, finishing 18-6-2 and winning the 2024 NWSL Championship, their first in franchise history. They broke the record for most points in a season, most wins in a season, and finished undefeated at home. With a similar roster to last season, Orlando looks set to make another unstoppable run and have a successful 2025 season.
Washington Spirit lost in the finals last year but should be very excited for this upcoming season. With Croix Bethune, who won Rookie of the Year and Midfielder of the Year, Trinity Rodman, and Aubrey Kingsbury in the net, this team is ready to continue to grow and impact the NWSL. Expect great things from the Spirit this season.
NJ/NY Gotham will be an interesting team to watch this season. They filled several holes in their lineup after key pieces departed for pastures new. Despite their rearranged squad, Gotham can still join the playoff conversation with goaltender Ann-Katrin Berger, Rose Lavelle, Emily Sonnett, Esther Gonzalez, and more among their ranks.
Portland Thorns, North Carolina Courage, Angel City, and Chicago Stars FC could surprise NWSL fans around the league. Anything is possible with star players on each of these squads and new additions from the offseason.
San Diego Wave's time of dominance when they entered the league has quickly slipped from their hands. After an unsuccessful last season, the roster required significant turnover. Star defender Naomi Girma left the team to head overseas, Jaedyn Shaw left to go to North Carolina, Alex Morgan retired towards the end of the 2024 season and Abby Dahlkemper left for Bay FC in August. As A result, the Wave will need to rely on their new talent to jump up the table in 2025.
With a record of 5-5-16, Houston Dash fans likely want to forget last season ever happened. However, they've addressed their biggest weakness in attack with a few key signings, including USWNT player Yazmeen Ryan. Will their offseason moves be enough to make a statement this season?
Last season, we saw a new format for the playoffs. The top eight teams will play in four quarterfinal matches, with the winners moving on. With no new clubs added this year, the league will likely retain its previous playoff format.
