The stakes are rising in the 2025 NWSL regular season with a few weeks left. Week 20 included a playoff preview featuring Kansas City Current against Washington Spirit, as both teams underscored their strengths with a scoreless draw. The Spirit aim to enhance their standings by going against Angel City FC this Thursday (12:30 p.m. ET on Paramount+). Los Angeles is in dire need of a victory, just three points away from the playoff line.

The playoff scenario still appears fluid, with Kansas City Current being the only team to secure a postseason spot. The 13 additional teams are keen to make their mark as time runs short. This is where the NWSL Power Rankings become essential. Teams that are barely hanging on are climbing the ranks, while some are faltering in the playoff race. For those monitoring team dynamics, check out my previous rankings.

With Week 21 approaching, anticipation builds over which teams will rise or fall further. Select NWSL matches can be viewed on CBS, CBS Sports Network, Paramount+, and CBS Sports Golazo Network.

2025 NWSL Power Rankings

Here’s the league ranking as Week 21 comes near:

1. Kansas City Current (–) Kansas City looked shaky without Temwa Chawinga but remained driven to prove their top-tier status this season.

2. Washington Spirit (–) While the NWSL Shield may be beyond reach, the Spirit are proving their mettle with strong performances from players like Leicy Santos and Tara McKeown.

3. Portland Thorns FC (–) This team is currently matching steps with others peaking at an ideal time, despite a recent lack of opportunities on goal.

4. Seattle Reign FC (+1) Seattle succeeded in executing necessary strategies, bolstered by veteran Jess Fishlock.

5. Gotham FC (+2) Gotham seems to have hit their stride at the right moment, currently led in scoring by Esther Gonzalez.

6. Orlando Pride (-2) With the arrival of Jacqueline Ovalle, Orlando needs a strong finish to avoid slipping further.

7. San Diego Wave (+2) This club is struggling to regain form; reminiscent of their earlier successful matches.

8. Racing Louisville (–) A challenging week for Louisville as they contend with stronger rivals, sending positive thoughts to Savannah DeMelo after a concerning episode.

9. Chicago Stars FC (+1) Undefeated since the summer break, Chicago is gaining unwanted attention but is forcefully determined.

10. Houston Dash (-1) Despite a strong showing over the past six weeks, they faltered against a strong contender.

11. Utah Royals FC (+1) Recent improvements marked by Paige Monaghan’s consistency.

12. North Carolina Courage (+2) The Courage are building momentum, spurred on by Brianna Pinto.

13. Bay FC (–) Stellar performances from goalkeeper Jordan Silkowitz have kept them afloat.

14. Angel City FC (-3) Though still in playoff contention, they’re struggling to maintain dominance as pressure mounts.