Chaos, Goals, and Glory: The NWSL Challenge Cup Delivered Everything
Bangers, drama, wild PKs, and a promising season full of absolute vibes—here’s why the NWSL is about to be unhinged in the best way possible.
The Challenge Cup Was Pure Chaos (and I Loved Every Second of It)
Y’all, the NWSL is BACK, and if the Challenge Cup was any indication, we are in for an absolutely unhinged season. I had a blast watching this game—drama, bangers, wild PKs, and my personal queen, Leicy Santos, doing what she does best: being iconic.
Alright, let’s talk about it—the Challenge Cup is just one game now. Gone are the days of the full mini-tournament; now, it’s just a glorified season opener. So, does it even matter?
Well… yes and no.
On one hand, it doesn’t impact the regular-season standings, there’s no buildup, and the “Cup” part feels a little silly when it’s literally just a single match. If you win, cool! If you lose? Meh, the real season starts next week. It’s not exactly a high-stakes situation.
But on the other hand, it’s a statement game. It’s the first chance to see new signings, test lineups, and get an early read on who’s coming into the season hot.
Plus, it’s just fun. The NWSL is back, and we get a standalone match with full attention on it. No competing games, no distractions—just a night for fans to lose their minds over an early-season banger with star teams and players.
So, is the Challenge Cup kind of pointless? Yeah.
But does that make it bad? Not at all.
It’s an appetizer, a warm-up, a little taste of the chaos we love before the real season begins. And honestly? I’ll take it.
Leicy Santos Is That Girl
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again—Leicy Santos is a magician. A soccer wizard. A football sorceress. And she proved it again with an absolute worldie of a free-kick goal. Like, just casually bending it into the net like it's no big deal. No notes, just vibes. The Spirit are so lucky to have her, and I cannot wait to see what she does this season.
Leicy Santos after scoring during the NWSL Challenge Cup.
Orlando Showed Up Too (But Yikes on the PKs)
Now, let's talk about the Pride. Rafaelle Souza said, "You know what? I’m scoring a banger," and hit her first NWSL goal. Loved that for her. Orlando looked really strong throughout the game, and honestly, I think they’re going to be a real problem for teams this year.
But… then came the penalty shootout. And let’s just say, Orlando might want to add ‘PK drills’ to their next practice session. It was rough. I get it—penalties are a mental game as much as a technical one—but woof. Watching that shootout felt like watching someone text their ex at 2 AM. Just a bad idea all around.
NWSL Weekend Games & My (Highly Scientific) Predictions (3/14-3/16)
The full NWSL season kicks off this weekend, and I am SO READY. Here’s what’s happening:
Friday, March 14, 2025:
Orlando Pride vs. Chicago Stars FC: The reigning NWSL Champions, Orlando Pride, kick off their title defense at home against the newly rebranded Chicago Stars FC.
Houston Dash vs. Washington Spirit: The Houston Dash, bolstered by key offseason acquisitions, host the Washington Spirit at Shell Energy Stadium.
Saturday, March 15, 2025:
Kansas City Current vs. Portland Thorns FC: A marquee matchup featuring reigning NWSL MVP Temwa Chawinga of Kansas City against Portland.
Racing Louisville FC vs. North Carolina Courage: Savannah DeMelo leads Racing Louisville as they begin their quest for a playoff berth against the North Carolina Courage, who have recently acquired midfielder Jaedyn Shaw.
Saturday, March 15, 2025:
Utah Royals FC vs. Bay FC: The Utah Royals, led by Ally Sentnor, host Bay FC, featuring Zambian standout Racheal Kundananji, in what promises to be an exciting clash.
Seattle Reign FC vs. NJ/NY Gotham FC: USWNT veteran Rose Lavelle and Gotham FC travel to face the NWSL's all-time leading scorer, Lynn (Williams) Biyendolo, and the Seattle Reign FC.
Sunday, March 16, 2025:
Angel City FC vs. San Diego Wave FC: The 12th iteration of the SoCal rivalry as French national team star Delphine Cascarino and San Diego Wave FC travel north to face off against the sensational sibling duo of Alyssa and Gisele Thompson and Angel City FC.
Now, am I sad that I’ll be missing the Houston Dash home opener against the Spirit? Yes. Will I be there in spirit? (Pun fully intended.) Also yes.
Teams I’m Keeping an Eye On This Season
Alright, let’s talk teams. Here’s who I think will be fire this season:
The Powerhouses:
Houston Dash – The Dash went all in this offseason, making major moves to strengthen their squad. They signed Yazmeen Ryan, a two-time NWSL champion, to bolster their midfield. They've also added Danielle Colaprico, the 2015 NWSL Rookie of the Year, to bring experience and creativity in the center of the park. Not stopping there, the Dash acquired Messiah Bright, a dynamic forward known for her goal-scoring prowess, and Christen Westphal, a veteran defender with championship experience. With these additions, the Dash are aiming for a fresh start and could surprise a lot of teams this season.
North Carolina Courage – The Courage had an active offseason, addressing key needs, particularly with the significant acquisition of Jaedyn Shaw. The team has improved from last season, with a stronger roster featuring promising new signings like Brooklyn Courtnall and Hannah Betfort. The effective coordination between key players such as Sanchez and Shaw will be crucial for their success.
Washington Spirit – The Spirit have been busy this offseason, making strategic signings to strengthen their squad. They acquired Mexican defender Rebeca Bernal from C.F. Monterrey, a seasoned international with over 250 club appearances and 65 caps for Mexico. Additionally, they've brought in French center back Kysha Sylla on loan from Lyon, and Ugandan defender Shadia Nankya, adding depth and versatility to their defense. In the midfield, the Spirit signed Deborah Abiodun, a Nigerian international known for her dynamic play, and Tamara Bolt, a Brazilian forward with a knack for finding the net. These additions, alongside the existing talents of Leicy Santos and Trinity Rodman, position the Spirit as strong contenders this season.
Kansas City Current – The Current have shown ambition by extending the contract of standout forward Temwa Chawinga, the 2024 NWSL MVP, ensuring their attacking prowess remains intact.
Orlando Pride – After an unbeaten 2024 season, the Pride, led by the legend Marta and bolstered by goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse's record 12 clean sheets, are the team to beat. The addition of Barbra Banda, a Zambian striker known for her goal-scoring prowess, has further strengthened their attack. Banda made an immediate impact, scoring 13 league goals in her debut season and playing a pivotal role in securing the NWSL Championship for the Pride. Her dynamic partnership with Marta has been instrumental in Orlando's success.
Bay FC – In their sophomore season, Bay FC has made strategic signings, including three-time All-American midfielder Taylor Huff, aiming to build on their inaugural playoff appearance.
Wildcard Teams:
San Diego Wave FC – The Wave are navigating a transitional phase, having lost key defender Naomi Girma to Chelsea for a record transfer fee. Rebuilding their defense will be crucial.
NJ/NY Gotham FC – With significant roster changes, including the departure of Lynn Williams to Seattle Reign FC, Gotham FC will be one to watch. I still think they have a lot of strong players.
Final Thoughts
If the Challenge Cup was just a warm-up, this season is going to be absolutely ridiculous in the best way possible. I cannot wait. Bring on the chaos and all of the scream-worthy goals. Let’s gooooo!