With only one NWSL matchday left before the Olympic break we thought it would be a good time to evaluate the season so far. We hit the halfway mark of the NWSL season in June, and as always the Chaos League as it’s affectionately called has not disappointed. From an undefeated top two to a couple of dramatic coach firings, and international superstars to record-breaking ownership sales, this season has it all. In case you haven’t been paying attention, here’s a look at the standings after 15 gamedays.
NWSL Standings by Week | Credit to Alison Gale on Twitter/X (@agale137)
Both KC and Orlando already have more points and goals than they did all of last season. Their success has come thanks to smart transfer strategies hinging on high-scoring attackers Temwa Chawinga and Barbra Banda who’ve both netted 11 goals so far. Chawinga has created a great partnership with Brazilian Bia Zaneratto (5G, 4A) up top and the steady supply of service from veteran midfielders La’Bonta and Di Bernardo helps, too. All four are ranked in the top 16 players league wide based on average rating. Banda has fit in well with Pride’s Brazilian crew, led by Marta (4G, 1), who’s having her best season in years, Adriana, Angelina, and Rafaelle. Additionally, Pride’s defense has been stellar, especially young defender Emily Sams (nee Madril) who played her way onto the extended USWNT roster.
We’ll see who’s better when they go head-to-head this weekend on Saturday at 7:30pm ET/ 4:30pm PT on plus.nwslsoccer.com
But we’re not here to talk about the heaps of international talent in the NWSL. How are Canadians doing in the 2024 season so far? The answer is… kind of mid. I think we had higher expectations of our Canadians than what we’ve seen so far in 2024, however, there are some bright spots.
Our highest ranked player based on Sofascore ratings is Kailen Sheridan at number 21 overall. Our #1 has been doing her best to keep Wave FC in the playoff race, earning 5 shutouts and a 7.22 rating on average. She conceded 1.1 goals per game, making 53 saves so far. She continues to excel in shotstopping (her PSxG-GA; post-shot expected goals minus goals allowed) ranks in the 97th percentile, her save percentage puts her in the 91st.
Our second highest rated player is Jordyn Huitema at 41st. She has two goals on the season and 7.09 ranking on average. Her 4-week absence due to a back injury plus Seattle’s general struggles have reduced her impact of late.
Third, Janine Beckie is at 52, mainly due to an impressive start to the season. Her 7.05 rating is solid all things considered, especially because she’s coming off of a long injury and only plays roughly 55 min per game in 9/15 starts for the Thorns. Her dribbling ability has stood out this season and put her in the 89th percentile when compared with other attackers. She has 3 goals and 1 assist.
In order, here’s how other Canadians with minimum minute in the league are faring:
64. Lysianne Proulx - 7.02 rating, got off to a flying start with Bay FC but has had no minutes since May 1st
82. Sophie Schmidt - 6.95 rating, 3rd in successful tackles, 81% pass accuracy for Houston
93. Christine Sinclair - 6.91 rating, 2G, 1A, 7/14 starts for Portland
98. Megan Reid - 6.9 rating, 87% pass accuracy, 65% ground duels won for ACFC
101. Jessie Fleming - 6.89 rating, 1A, 5.9 progressive passes/game, 81% pass accuracy for Portlant
117. Quinn - 6.86 rating, 6/8 starts, 7.3 progressive passes/game, 82% pass accuracy for Seattle
133. Bianca St Georges - 6.81 rating, 2G, 1A for North Carolina
183. Gabrielle Carle - 6.7 rating, 1A, 5th most successful tackles, 72% pass accuracy for Washington
200. Victoria Pickett - 6.65 rating, 1A, 3/14 starts for North Carolina
Other Canadians
Desi Scott has played 5 games, but only 9 min/game (6.63 rating) for KC
Amanda Allen has played 112 minutes across 8 games (6.7 rating) and has one assist for Orlando
Nichelle Prince hasn’t played since May 25, prior she had 108 minutes in 3 games (6.93 rating) for KC
Sydney Collins hasn’t featured for North Carolina, has been on the 45d injury list since February (broken ankle)
Rookie Watch
Zoe Burns - RB, 6.67 rating, 11GP, 66min/game for Utah
Amanda West - LWB, 6.62 rating, 13 GP, 1G, 52min/game for Houston
Mya Jones - RW, 6.62 rating, 9GP, 1G, 56min/game for San Diego
And there you have it. Let me know if you agree or disagree that it’s been a mid season from a Canadian perspective.
Let’s hope our players experience a post-Olympic bump and push to become the true NWSL stars they’re meant to be.
If you’re worried about NWSL withdrawals, don’t worry the NWSL x Liga MX Summer Cup is on and will be a great opportunity for those who haven’t been selected for the Olympics to shine. Check the schedule here on our Woso google calendar.
