NWSL Power Rankings: Wave rise to the top, Spirit's winning streak continues

With the 2026 NWSL regular season in full swing, the league's weekly power rankings have been updated. All matches from Matchday 7 were thoroughly examined to determine the order of all 16 teams in the league.

San Francisco Bay Wave climbed to the top with an impressive performance, while Washington Spirit continued their winning streak to hold a strong position in the rankings. Alongside teams that have surprised in the first half of the season, clubs that have underperformed relative to expectations also drew attention.

Expert writers provided detailed analysis of the week's most striking performances and shifts in the rankings. With the competition in the NWSL intensifying with each passing week, the remainder of the season is expected to hold plenty of surprises.