Latest news on the NWSL, covering scores, schedules, standings, playoffs, trades, signings and expansion across the National Women's Soccer League.
The National Women's Soccer League is the top flight of women's soccer in the United States. Founded in 2012, the league began play in 2013 and has grown into one of the strongest women's competitions in the world. Its clubs include the Portland Thorns, Kansas City Current, Washington Spirit, Gotham FC, Orlando Pride, San Diego Wave, Angel City FC, Bay FC, Seattle Reign, North Carolina Courage, Chicago Stars, Houston Dash, Racing Louisville and Utah Royals.
The league is in a period of rapid expansion, with Denver Summit FC and Boston Legacy FC among its newest franchises. Expansion fees have climbed past 100 million dollars, while attendance records continue to fall, with crowds exceeding 60,000 for marquee fixtures. Landmark broadcast agreements have also transformed the league's visibility, putting matches on major national networks and streaming platforms.
Each NWSL season features a regular season race for the NWSL Shield, awarded to the team finishing top of the standings. The leading sides then contest the playoffs, culminating in the NWSL Championship final. Clubs also compete for the Challenge Cup and can qualify for the CONCACAF W Champions Cup against the best teams in North and Central America and the Caribbean.
The NWSL showcases stars of the US women's national team alongside leading internationals from Africa, Asia, Europe and South America. It has become a cultural force in American sport, with celebrity-backed and women-led ownership groups, purpose-built women's stadiums and passionate supporter communities. Player trades, free agency moves and record-breaking contracts keep the league in the headlines year round.
The league succeeded earlier professional competitions, the Women's United Soccer Association and Women's Professional Soccer, and has proved far more durable than either. It has also confronted serious challenges, including a player abuse scandal that prompted independent investigations and sweeping reforms. Collective bargaining breakthroughs have since abolished the college draft, guaranteed contracts and expanded player freedom of movement.
Our NewsNow feed on the NWSL is updated around the clock with headlines from trusted sources, bringing you match reports, transfer news, injury updates and analysis. Whether you follow one club or the whole league, this is your one-stop source for National Women's Soccer League news.