The second week of the 2025 NWSL season delivered everything a soccer fan could ask for: dramatic finishes, breakout performances and early indications of which teams might be title contenders or, conversely, find themselves struggling to keep up. Across seven matches, stars rose to the occasion, defenses were tested and a few unexpected results shook up the league’s early standings.
Portland Thorns FC and Angel City FC kicked things off with a hard-fought 1-1 draw at Providence Park. Angel City’s Kennedy Fuller struck early in the ninth minute. Missing key players like Sophia Smith and Jessie Flemming, Portland needed someone to step up and Reilyn Turner, a UCLA women’s soccer alum, answered in the 30th minute with an equalizer off a set piece. Another instrumental player for UCLA, Jayden Perry’s performance was noted for her composure and defensive capabilities. Her transition from college to the professional level is being watched closely, with everyone eager to see her development. Despite outshooting Angel City 21-6, the Thorns couldn’t find a winner, largely due to Angel City’s disciplined defense and Alyssa Thompson’s tireless work in transition.
Seattle Reign secured its first win of the season by beating North Carolina Courage 2-1 in Cary. Jess Fishlock, the midfielder captain for Seattle, celebrated her 200th NWSL regular-season appearance in style, opening the scoring in the 34th minute. Then, history was made as 19-year-old Jordyn Bugg hit a jaw-dropping 32.7-yard rocket, the longest goal ever scored by a teenager in the NWSL. Bugg took that momentum and also made a significant impact in Seattle’s victory in week two of the season. She solidified her presence in the match with [Reign] and showed off her talent. Despite missing three key players, Seattle’s strategy was key in securing the team’s first win. Aline Gomes pulled one back for the Courage, but Seattle’s high-pressing defense frustrated North Carolina, challenging Ashley Sanchez’s creativity and securing three valuable points.
Kansas City Current made a statement in Washington, silencing a sold-out crowd at Audi Field with a 2-0 win over the Washington Spirit. Lo’eau LaBonta converted a penalty just past the hour mark and Temwa Chawinga later ended the game in stoppage time. Without Croix Bethune, Washington struggled to generate sustained attacking pressure, and a disallowed Trinity Rodman goal only added to the Spirit’s frustration. The loss broke Washington’s unbeaten home streak that dated back to June 2023.
In what was arguably the most thrilling match of the second week, San Diego Wave FC battled past the Utah Royals in a 3-2 win at Snapdragon Stadium. María Sánchez and Adriana Leon gave the Wave a strong start, only for Utah to fight back with two quick goals of their own. The decisive moment came late in the match, when Gia Corley provided a perfectly timed assist for the game-winner. Corley’s performance was nothing short of crucial. Her contribution in this game showcased her vision in the final third and precision, proving to be a key player for San Diego’s attack. Corley’s standout performance did not go unnoticed, as she was voted NWSL Player of the Week. Her ability to impact the game when it mattered most, her work ethic, ability to execute under pressure and technical skill deserved the recognition. Both sides finished with 11 shots, but San Diego’s precision in front of goal proved the difference. A special moment came for Utah’s Imani Dorsey, who made her return exactly a year after an Achilles rupture.
Bay FC made its home opener one to remember, securing a 2-0 victory over Racing Louisville. Joelle Anderson set the tone with a well-placed strike in the 12th minute, but it was rookie sensation Karlie Lema who stole the show, taking off on a stunning 70-yard solo run before curling a 20-yard shot into the net. In her first professional start, Lema showed her potential and composure. In addition to her goal, Lema’s overall performance was a statement to her readiness for the NWSL, despite being a rookie. She demonstrated that she could thrive in high pressure situations. On the other end, goalkeeper Jordan Silkowitz registered her first NWSL clean sheet with three key saves, helping the recent expansion club, Bay FC, build early momentum in their second season.
Houston Dash also picked up its first win of the season in week two, beating Chicago Stars FC 2-1 at SeatGeek Stadium. Chicago struck first through Jameese Joseph, but Houston responded with Paige Nielsen equalizing in the 20th minute before Maggie Graham netted the decisive goal in the 64th. Controlling over 62% possession, Houston dictated play and relied on Jane Campbell’s saves between the posts, with the goalkeeper making five crucial saves. The victory also marked the first NWSL win for head coach Fabrice Gautrat.
Orlando Pride continued their unbeaten run with a clinical 2-0 win over Gotham FC at Sports Illustrated Stadium. An own goal from Lily Reale gifted Orlando the early advantage, and Marta Silva, the queen of the pitch, ensured the result with a calmly converted penalty before halftime. Despite Gotham’s statistical edge, tallying 59% possession and 17 shots, Orlando’s disciplined backline, led by goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse, held firm to preserve the shutout.
The most entertaining game of the week undoubtedly belonged to San Diego and Utah, as their back-and-forth thriller kept fans on the edge of their seats. Orlando Pride continue to prove that they are the team to beat, with defensive solidity and efficiency in attack setting them apart. Kansas City Current also made a statement, proving an ability to win on the road against strong opposition. As for individual brilliance, Corley’s match-winning performance for San Diego made her the standout player of the week, while Seattle’s Maddie Dahlien showcased her rapid development with a dynamic display that big things are to come.
With the season heating up, week two provided a glimpse of what’s in store: unexpected results, rising stars, and teams beginning to shape their identity. If this weekend was any indication, the 2025 NWSL season is to be one of the most electrifying yet. Be sure to stay tuned, if you can’t catch them in real-time, don’t worry, look for this column next week to tell you about all the key moments and results you need to know.
Here’s the next week’s NWSL schedule:
Friday, March 28 at 5 p.m.:
- Houston Dash vs. Gotham FC
- Washington Spirit vs. Bay FC
Saturday, March 29:
- Orlando Pride vs. San Diego Wave FC at 9 a.m.
- Kansas City vs. Utah Royals at 4:30 p.m.
- Portland Thorns vs. North Carolina Courage at 7 p.m.
Sunday, March 30:
- Chicago Stars FC vs. Racing Louisville at 1 p.m.
- Angel City FC vs. Seattle Reign at 5 p.m.