By OkayGoal 
Since 2013, the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) has been the highest level of professional women’s soccer in the United States. The league has since grown steadily, with new franchises on the way in 2026 that will bring the total to 16 clubs — a sign of just how strong the women’s game has become.
This year’s playoff race is set. Eight teams will make the postseason, and with the regular season winding down, the bracket is taking shape. Some clubs are already safely through, while others are still battling for seeding and survival.
Fans who want to see how analysts are weighing each team’s chances can check the latest NWSL odds at NJ Sports Betting Apps. Looking at the numbers is one way to get a sense of just how dominant Kansas City has been — and how tight the competition looks for everyone else.
Kansas City Current: Shield Winners and Title Favorites
The Kansas City Current have already locked up the NWSL Shield with a record-breaking season. They cleared the 50-point mark weeks before the finish, boasting a +28 goal differential and conceding just 10 goals all year. Temwa Chawinga continues to shine with 12 goals, making Kansas City not just the stingiest defense but also the most dangerous attack.
Now, the focus shifts: can they turn regular-season dominance into their first championship under the Current name?
The Chasing Pack: Spirit, Pride, and the Defending Champs
The Washington Spirit are officially in and look like the most credible challengers. They’ve combined firepower with a rock-solid defense, carrying one of the best goal differentials in the league.
The Orlando Pride, last year’s champions, remain firmly in the mix. While not at Kansas City’s level in the standings, Orlando knows what it takes to win in knockout soccer — and no one will overlook them once the postseason begins.
Other recent winners like Gotham FC and the Portland Thorns are also in playoff position, reminding fans just how much parity exists in this league. Four different champions from the past four years are back in contention.
What’s at Stake
The 2025 NWSL Playoffs kick off November 7, with Kansas City seeking to cap their Shield run with a championship. It’s been more than a decade since Kansas City last celebrated an NWSL trophy, and this squad may be the best positioned to end that drought.
But as every fan knows, the postseason is where upsets thrive. Whether it’s the Spirit’s surge, Orlando’s title defense, or another contender stepping into the spotlight, the path to the championship promises drama at every turn.
This fall’s NWSL postseason is already shaping up to be one of the most competitive yet.