Biggest Team Rivalries in the NWSL

The 2023 edition of the National Women’s Soccer League is almost here. Last week, US Soccer announced the league’s power-packed schedule for the upcoming season. Many soccer players and fans were upset at the delayed release of the campaign’s schedule. However, things seemed to have calmed down by now.

Following the social media uproar, the fans are eagerly waiting for March 25. Amidst all the drama and chaos, it is important to remember the several NWSL exclusive rivalries that have become fiercer over the years.

These women’s soccer rivalries are nothing lesser than the biggest rivalries of the sport.

NWSL veteran team – OL Reign vs Portland Thorns FC

This season’s Cascadia rivalry might be a very emotional one. OL Reign will meet the defending champions four times this season, twice during the league and twice during the Challenge Cup. The soccer world might witness Megan Rapinoe and Christine Sinclair facing each other for the very last time.

While both of them sit on one-year contracts for the season, the fans still expect to see fierce competition between the two. Considering they’ve reached that stage of their careers, the fans will also keep an eye on them during the year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup.

NWSL’s California Derby – Angel City FC vs San Diego Waves FC

The Californian derby is probably the best one of them all. Everyone is eager to watch USMNT legend, Alex Morgan, clash against America’s next-best legend in the making, Alyssa Thompson. Thompson has already started her season on a high note after scoring a brace during Angel City’s warmup game against Club America.

Rivalries after players clash – NJ/NY Gotham FC vs Washington Spirit

NJ/NY Gotham is ready to reignite its rivalry with Washington Spirit on April 20, 2023. It’s been a mixed battle between the two of them since last season. However, the real banter started after former Gotham keeper Ashlyn Harris publicly fired shots at Segra Field. This mainly happened after Washington Spirit posted a video of Ashley Sanchez putting Ali Krieger on skates.

Even Trinity Rodman was involved in the back-and-forth with Ashlyn Harris. However, Rodman then showed everyone who was the real boss after scoring two goals during their next meeting.

READ MORE: 2023 NWSL Schedule – Regular Season, Playoffs, and Challenge Cup

Kansas City Current vs. Racing Louisville FC

The most recent NWSL rivalry between Kansas City Current and Racing Louisville FC will seemingly catch more fire this season. After struggling during the beginning of last season, the Current turned their season around by almost winning the title. On the other hand, Racing Louisville FC is still looking to break the shackles in the NWSL. Keeping in mind their hard-hitting rivalry, the two of them need to achieve two very different objectives this season.

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Which NWSL rivalry are you most excited about? Let us know in the comments below.