By ETT 
NWSL Week 2 Preview: 2025 Season Heats Up
The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) continues its thrilling 2025 season with Week 2 action, building on the excitement of the opening weekend. All four 2024 semifinalists will face off, making this a weekend full of intense rematches and early tests for the league,and this early in the season, every point is crucial. While some teams, like the dominant Orlando Pride, appear,fans are eager to see how the rest of the league responds after getting the initial game jitters out of the way.
The first week is always full of nerves and getting used to playing at the pro level again after the offseason.Now that players have all experienced those first-match jitters. Every game is huge for the league.The intensity in the stadium is really high and there is a lot of pressure.Week 2 becomes crucial in the race to the top. It’s a chance for teams to solidify their positions or make statement wins to boost their campaigns early.
For fans eager to catch the action, there are multiple viewing options available across various platforms. Friday night matches are exclusively on Prime Video. Saturday night features double-headers on the Scripps-owned ION network, with games at 7:30 PM and 10:00 PM ET. CBS will broadcast select games, also available for streaming on Paramount+. ESPN and ESPN2 will carry matches, with simultaneous streaming on ESPN+. Finally, NWSL+ offers a direct streaming option for both U.S. and international fans, ensuring that no one misses out on the excitement.
Friday, March 21: Portland Thorns vs. Angel City FC
The Portland Thorns are back at home, eager to bounce back from opening week after a 3-1 away loss to the Kansas City Current. The Thorns have an astonishing home record, winning 10 out of 11 all-time home openers. They’ll need to tighten up defensively after conceding three first-half goals last week. Midfielder Olivia Moultrie, who scored the lone goal for the Thorns last week, poses a significant second-half threat with 75% of her career goals coming after halftime.
Angel City FC, began their season with a 1-1 draw at home against San Diego Wave FC. The team secured a point with a critical goal made by , Alyssa Thompson.Thompson’s emergence as a consistent early-season scorer. She has recorded her teams first goal twice in her three year career., This is important to Angel City’s hopes. It will be challenging fixture for them in front of one of the best fan bases in the league.This match promises a good clash for both teams.
Saturday, March 22: North Carolina Courage vs. Seattle Reign
The second day start with North Carolina Courage host Seattle Reign.The Reign secured a useful draw against Gotham FC last week, with super-sub Emeri Adames netting the equalizer goals. Adames’ ability to change the game off the bench could be a key factor in the Reign attack. Courage team has typically dominated this matchup, especially at home, boasting a record of 9 wins in 10 home meetings.
The North Carolina Courage had a 1-1 draw last week against Racing Louisville FC. One of the young stars, Riley Jackson was able to score for her team.The 19-year-old.As they look to maintain their dominant home record,Jackson’s skill to stay calm will show. This game will be marked as the young stars in the making.
Saturday, March 22: Washington Spirit vs. Kansas City Current
The Washington Spirit start a big game week with a 2-1 win over the Houston Dash, Ashley Hatch scored her 54th career NWSL goal.Hatch’s goal-scoring ability, make her a constant for the Spirit.The atmosphere at Audi Field is projected to be electric, especially given the buzz created during last season’s playoff run.
The Kansas City Current are traveling to spoil the fun, arriving with lots of confidence after dominating 3-1 victory over the Portland Thorns. The Current, led by 2024 NWSL MVP and Golden Boot winner Temwa Chawinga boast a potent attack. Chawinga and players like Michelle Cooper, Claire Hutton, and Debinha, create a versatile and dangerous offensive line.
Saturday, March 22: San Diego Wave FC vs. Utah Royals FC
San Diego Wave FC and Utah Royals FC, after both recording a 1-1 draw last week, looking to maintain their progress. Gia Corley, the German international, scored on her debut, proving her ability. Corley’s integration in the starting eleven is key to San Diego’s success.
For Utah Royals FC, Bianca St-Georges scored last week, opening her season in spectacular fashion.St-Georges will be hoping to continue her fine form against the Wave, who boast Save of the Week winner Kailen Sheridan in goal..This match could be one to watch out for with both players in good form.
Saturday, March 22: Bay FC vs. Racing Louisville FC
Bay FC is entering to start the match with a 1-1 draw against Utah Royals FC., Kiki Pickett’s long-range equalizer becoming Goal of the Week..Pickett’s defensive versatility and eye for goal make her a crucial asset.However, Bay FC boasts a potent attacking lineup featuring Asisat Oshoala, Racheal Kundananji, and Abby Dahlkemper, along with rookie Taylor Huff. Bay FC won both meetings with Louisville last season.
Racing Louisville FC, meanwhile, saw Emma Sears score last week. Racing Louisville need to unlock Bay FC’s backline. With Savannah DeMelo’s excellence and Ary Borges’ creativity, they will be looking to get their first win of the season.This match promises a clash between tactical approaches.
Sunday, March 23: Chicago Stars FC vs. Houston Dash
The Chicago Stars, rebranded from the Chicago Red Stars, are anxious to rebound after a 6-0 defeat to the reigning champion Orlando Pride last week.Rebranded and under pressure, the Stars will be desperate to bounce back with a strong home performance. Young Japanese midfielder, Manaka Hayashi, has the potential to be a game-changer for the Stars.
The Houston Dash is ready to maintain their performance.The Dash will be looking to avoid an 0-2 start,a feat they haven’t experienced before.Maggie Graham, who made history in week 1 by becoming the 1000th NWSL player and scoring shortly after. Along with new players like Yazmeen Ryan and Messiah Bright, adding to their attacking strength.This match could be good match for the fans.
Sunday, March 23: Gotham FC vs. Orlando Pride
The weekend is getting it ends with a clash between defending champions.The unstoppable Orlando Pride dominated last week with a 6-0 crushing win.Banda, in sensational form, has contributed either a goal or an assist against every NWSL team except Gotham FC.
Gotham FC, who drew 1-1 with Seattle Reign last week despite being a player down, will rely on their strong home record – an 11-match unbeaten streak. Gabi Portilho, making her NWSL debut last week, showed the difference-maker. Her creative presence will be vital if Gotham hopes to break down Orlando’s formidable defense,and the match is going to be exciting.
The Marathon Continues
Week 2 of the 2025 NWSL season presents many exciting possibilities, and more development play for all teams. As the season progresses, Week 2 clashes will set the stage for an long season ahead.With rivalries renewed, rising stars emerging, and established veterans continuing their form, the 2025 NWSL season is shaping up to be one for the history record.
Every match of the NWSL is critical to the teams.Every single week have the pressure of it own.For the opening week of the 2025 NWSL season.There are a lots of storyline and twist that waiting to be happen.The intense competition continues, and there is bound to be a lot of good games every single day.
The NWSL 2025 is expected to be exciting season for the player and the fans.With the talent and rivalries on display,fans can look forward to many more exciting moments.Week 2 is just the beginning of the journey in NWSL 2025 Season,and with every game, the excitement and drama builds, leading to what promises to be a thrilling title race.