Gotham rise as Portland and Washington slip in latest NWSL power rankings
CBS Sports has lifted Gotham FC, Chicago Stars FC and Boston Legacy in its latest weekly assessment, while Portland Thorns and Washington Spirit have fallen after recent setbacks.
Gotham FC have risen in the latest NWSL power rankings, with CBS Sports highlighting Rose Lavelle’s impact on the club’s standing. The assessment does not provide Gotham’s exact position or identify a specific recent result.
Portland Thorns and Washington Spirit have slipped after setbacks, as the 2026 regular season enters a tightly contested phase. CBS Sports says six matches separate teams in the NWSL Shield race, the playoff positions and those outside the playoff places.
Chicago Stars FC became the first team eliminated from playoff contention after securing a draw with Portland through a late stoppage-time goal. The result added to Portland’s recent winless run and earned Chicago a rise in the weekly rankings.
Boston Legacy also moved up after defeating Washington Spirit. Amanda Gutierres scored twice after Aissata Traore’s winning goal, disrupting Washington’s push in the Shield race.
The rankings are a weekly assessment of NWSL clubs rather than official league standings. Midweek fixtures are expected to bring every team level on matches played, further sharpening the competition across the table.
