NWSL playoff rankings: Favorites, contenders, wild cards and long-shots
The 2026 NWSL regular season came to an end over the weekend with eight teams advancing to the playoffs. Gotham FC has already earned the shield and look to complete the double by lifting the league championship. Which team will be the one left standing with the trophy? Let’s take a look at which teams […]
The 2026 NWSL regular season concluded over the weekend, with eight teams advancing to the playoffs. Among these contenders, Gotham FC, led by Kennedy Wesley, is favored to win the championship. The team has won seven consecutive games and boasts a balanced roster, including Trinity Byars who became the most reliable goalscorer in the league with 11 goals.
Kansas City Current, riding a five-match win streak, and Angel City FC, unbeaten in their last 10 games, face off in the first round. Both teams lead the league in goals scored, with Kansas City having the top xG differential and Angel City third. The upcoming match at CPKC Stadium could be a thrilling encounter, as it holds a league-record 32-game unbeaten streak. KC Current defeated Washington Spirit in last year's quarterfinals, while Angel City FC is the eventual 2025 champions.
Gotham FC, the No. 1 contender, will face Seattle Reign in the quarterfinal. Gotham's defensive record is impressive, with 14 clean sheets, but their attack has struggled, scoring the seventh fewest goals. Rose Lavelle and Jaedyn Shaw's availability for the playoffs remains uncertain due to injuries and substitutions. Head coach JCA remains confident, stating that the team will step up during the postseason.
Washington Spirit, the No. 3 favorite, will challenge Portland Thorns in the quarterfinal. The Spirit have the second-best defense, but their attack is in the middle of the pack. Trinity Rodman is a standout player with 20 goal contributions this season. Despite recent struggles, Washington Spirit has bounced back with two consecutive wins at Audi Field.
Portland Thorns, the No. 6 wild card, have the league's top remaining goalscorer, Sophia Wilson, with 20 contributions in the form of 15 goals and five assists. The team boasts a strong defensive record, but their attack may need to carry the load against a tough opponent. The Thorns are led by Wilson and Pietra Tordin, who have had impressive seasons scoring goals and assists.
Written by urgent.news from SB Nation's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
