NWSL Matchday 18 Power Rankings: Orlando Pride Slump Worsened By Injury to Top Scorer

Racing Louisville broke several team records over the weekend, including their first-ever away win at Snapdragon Stadium with a 1-0 victory against San Diego Wave, marking their fourth road win in a single season for the first time in club history. Emma Sears scored the winning goal, which was her seventh of the season, making her the first Racing player to reach seven goals in a single season. This performance signals the team's rise and cultural shift, despite never having made the NWSL playoffs since their debut in 2021.

Utah Royals have become difficult to beat, recording back-to-back clean sheets in scoreless draws, including a recent away game against Gotham FC. Although they remain at the bottom of the rankings, their performance is trending positively, but they need to end their 12-match winless streak soon to improve their standing.

Chicago Stars, under interim manager Ella Masar, have transformed into a resilient team, achieving two consecutive 3-3 comeback ties. Ludmila scored the fastest hat trick in NWSL history in 10 minutes and nine seconds against North Carolina Courage, highlighting the team's never-say-die attitude.

Bay FC set a new NWSL attendance record with 40,091 people at Oracle Park, but on the pitch, they lost 3-2 to Washington Spirit due to soft defending and bad luck. Despite showing fight by scoring two goals after being down 3-0, and Racheal Kundananji ending her 10-game goalless streak, their playoff chances appear to be fading.

North Carolina Courage face growing concerns over poor game management, having given up 2-0 and 3-2 leads in recent games, which undermines their playoff contender status. While players like Manaka Matsukubo and Jaedyn Shaw show elite performance, the team's trust in closing out games is declining.

Gotham FC continues to struggle, with another 0-0 draw featuring one of the worst attacking first halves of the season. Questions about depth in creativity and scoring persist, and the team is on a downward slide, worrying their fans.

Los Angeles secured their first win under manager Alex Straus after six winless games, beating defending champions Orlando Pride 1-0. Alyssa Thompson scored the winning goal with some luck, and the team is showing improved foundations with high potential despite current poor form.

Houston Dash are now undefeated in four games and delivered their best performance of the season in a 1-1 draw against Seattle Reign. Although defensive lapses cost them the win, their passing, movement, and defensive shape have significantly improved, though scoring chances remain rare.

Seattle Reign's Sofia Huerta broke the record for the most assists in NWSL regular season history with a beautifully weighted cross for Jordyn Huitema. While there are questions about her fit in a back three formation, her quality on the ball is undeniable.