Weekend XI

Here’s your starting eleven — Our top picks for this weekend’s most exciting women’s soccer moments across the globe, plus the latest updates on rising stars, major milestones, and key off-field developments shaping the future of the game.

🇺🇸 NWSL Weekly Recap & Matchday 9 Preview: From Milestones to a Table-Topping Clash

Matchday 8 delivered memorable moments and milestones across the NWSL. The North Carolina Courage celebrated their fourth-ever sellout at First Horizon Stadium with 9,366 fans in attendance. Christen Press electrified the Angel City crowd, scoring just 24 seconds after stepping onto the field—her first home goal since returning from an ACL injury. In Kansas City, Debinha’s clinical brace helped the Current thrash Bay FC 4-1, extending their perfect home record in 2025.

But the week took a serious turn when Angel City’s Savy King collapsed on the field during Friday’s match against the Utah Royals, prompting a nearly 10-minute stoppage. The NWSL Players Association has since demanded a change in league protocol, calling for games to be abandoned when life-saving medical care is required. King later underwent surgery for a discovered heart abnormality and is now recovering.

Off the pitch, business developments underlined the league’s growth. Bay FC announced a record-breaking five-year, $13 million sponsorship deal with Sutter Health—setting a new high for the NWSL. Meanwhile, Alex Morgan stepped into a new role as a minority investor in San Diego Wave FC, her former club, underscoring the increasing involvement of elite players in shaping the league's future from the boardroom.

Now, all eyes turn to Matchday 9, headlined by a top-of-the-table clash between Orlando Pride and Kansas City Current. KC (18 pts) leads the standings, but Orlando (16 pts) is right on their heels. The Pride won the last meeting 3–2, though KC previously walked away with a win in Orlando—setting the stage for a fiery rematch.

Both teams have stumbled recently: KC is regrouping after two losses, and Orlando is winless in their last two. With stars like Marta and Barbra Banda pushing for Orlando and Debinha and Bia Zaneratto ready to strike for KC, expect high stakes and top-quality football as the league’s best collide.

Find out where to watch Orlando Pride vs. KC Current and all the NWSL Matchday 9 games on W-scores.

💫 Rising Stars to Watch

Three teenage players are making significant impacts:

• Trinity Armstrong (17): Left UNC to join San Diego Wave.

• McKenna “Mak” Whitham (14): Signed with Gotham FC, becoming the youngest-ever NWSL player.

• KK Ream: Now with Utah Royals, recently became the youngest player to start a league match.

📊 Think you know how the matches will play out? 

Show off your NWSL knowledge in the free NWSL Pick’em Challenge! With 357 points still up for grabs and awesome prizes on the line, it’s the perfect time to jump in. Make your picks, compete with friends, and follow your progress all season long. Whether you're chasing the win or just having fun—every prediction matters!

🇺🇸 USL Super League: Final Stretch Heats Up and Top-of-the-Table Showdown

Week 33 of the USL Super League centers on a pivotal clash between the league’s top two teams, Carolina Ascent FC and Tampa Bay Sun FC. Carolina currently holds first place, riding a six-match winning streak, while Tampa Bay follows closely in second, having won five of their last six games. This matchup is crucial: Carolina can clinch the Players’ Shield and secure home-field advantage throughout the playoffs with a win or even a draw.

Tampa Bay is the only team Carolina hasn’t managed to beat this season, holding a 2-0-1 record in their head-to-head meetings, including a narrow 1-0 win in March. The return of Tampa Bay captain Jordyn Listro from suspension adds extra firepower to their lineup.

Players to watch:

• Carolina: Mia Corbin, tied for the league’s Golden Boot with 12 goals, leads the team in shots and chances created — a constant threat up front.

• Tampa Bay: Cecilie Fløe, who recently notched two assists and a goal, brings speed and composure that bolster Tampa Bay’s attacking threat.

Find out where to watch Carolina Ascent FC vs. Tampa Bay Sun FC and all the USL Super League games on W-scores.

🔑 Other Key Matches & Standings Update

Earlier this week, DC Power FC faced Spokane Zephyr FC on Tuesday. While DC came into the match with momentum from back-to-back wins, they had already been eliminated from playoff contention. Spokane seized the opportunity to move into third place with a 2-1 victory. Looking ahead to this weekend, Lexington SC will host Fort Lauderdale United. Both teams are struggling with winless streaks and are out of playoff contention. Keep an eye on key players Kate Doyle for Lexington and Jasmine Hamid for Fort Lauderdale.

📅 Upcoming Season Schedule

The USL Super League has officially announced the schedule for its upcoming 2025/26 season. The action kicks off on August 23, 2025, with the regular season running through May 16, 2026. Following the conclusion of regular play, the top four teams will advance to the playoffs, culminating in the league final on the weekend of May 30, 2026.

🇺🇸 USWNT Celebrates Milestones: Mallory Swanson’s Pregnancy, Carli Lloyd’s Hall of Fame Induction, and 40th Anniversary Festivities

👶 USWNT forward Mallory Swanson and her husband, MLB player Dansby Swanson, are expecting their first child. The couple shared the news on Instagram, calling it “our greatest blessing.” Mallory, 27, has been absent from the 2025 NWSL season for personal reasons. She previously played a pivotal role in the USWNT’s 2019 Women’s World Cup victory and scored the winning goal in the 2024 Olympic gold medal match against Brazil.

🎉 In the past week, the USWNT has been celebrating its 40th anniversary with major events. Nike unveiled two new kits, the "Brilliant Kit" and "Heartbeat Kit," which will debut against China on May 31. Upcoming matches also include a June 3rd game against Jamaica, where retired captain Becky Sauerbrunn will be honored. Click the link to find out where to watch all the USWNT’s upcoming Women’s International Friendly Games.

The team reflected on its four Women’s World Cup titles, four Olympic gold medals, and shared insights on the journey and impact of the USWNT from both former players and current members.

🏆 This week, Carli Lloyd's U.S. Soccer Hall of Fame induction received significant media attention, especially her emotional apology to former teammates and family for being an "emotionless machine" during her career. She explained how her intense focus on success impacted personal connections, with motherhood helping her become more reflective. Megan Rapinoe responded with empathy, acknowledging the struggles USWNT players face and praising Lloyd's vulnerability. Their exchange sparked public discussions about the pressures within the team and the importance of emotional well-being in elite sports.

🇺🇸 USL W League

As the 2025 USL W League season gets underway, a mix of elite talent and inspiring stories are shaping the narrative early. From Golden Boot winners to defensive anchors and rising college stars, here are seven players who stand out — not just for their play, but for what they represent.

1. Luciana Setteducate – TLH Reckoning. Last season’s Golden Boot winner (18 goals) moves to TLH Reckoning in one of the league’s biggest transfers. A proven game-changer, Setteducate is poised to elevate her new club’s attack.

2. Abby Droner – Paisley Athletic FC- The reigning Young Player of the Year returns after netting 12 goals in 2024 and starting all 10 matches. Droner was instrumental in Paisley’s first winning season and remains one of the league’s most dangerous forwards.

3. Georgia Brown – Sporting JAX. Defender of the Year in 2024, Brown anchored a perfect season for Florida Elite. With nine goals and elite defensive presence, the 6’1" center back is a standout on both ends of the pitch.

4. Devin Lynch – River Light FC. Lynch enters 2025 fresh off a College Cup run and an ACC title with Duke. She’s a creative forward with six goals and two assists last W League season and is poised for another playoff push.

5. Amalia Villarreal – Union FC Macomb. The 2024 SEC Freshman of the Year joins expansion side Union FC Macomb after her call-up to the USYNT U-19 squad. Villarreal brings national-level experience and serious scoring potential.

6. Tessa Dellarose – Pittsburgh Riveters SC. A hometown hero and UNC national champion, Dellarose leads Pittsburgh in its inaugural season. The former Racing Louisville player brings top-tier experience and a dynamic presence at outside back.

7. Mia Hamant – West Seattle Rhodies FC. More than a player to watch — Mia Hamant is a symbol of courage. The University of Washington goalkeeper was diagnosed in April with Stage 4 SMARCB1-deficient kidney cancer, an extremely rare and aggressive form of the disease. Despite her battle, Hamant remains an integral part of the West Seattle Rhodies, who have renamed their ‘City Light’ kit the ‘Mia Hamant City Light’ jersey in her honor.

Hamant helped design the kit, inspired by a neon landmark near the West Seattle Bridge. Proceeds from each sale support her medical fund. Prior to her diagnosis, she delivered a standout college season, leading the Big Ten in save percentage (.882) and guiding UW to deep runs in the Big Ten and NCAA Tournaments.

West Seattle kicks off its season Sunday, May 18 vs. Salmon Bay FC, with a “Kick Cancer” night planned for June 25. Find out where to watch the game and all the other USL W League games on W-scores.

🌎 Concacaf Announces Dates for 2025/26 W Champions Cup and World Cup Path

As the 2024/25 Concacaf W Champions Cup semifinals approach (May 21–24 in Monterrey), Concacaf has revealed dates for the 2025/26 edition. The group stage will run from August to October 2025, with the Final Four set for May 20–23, 2026. The winner will qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s Champions Cup and the 2028 Women’s Club World Cup. So far, eight teams have qualified, with clubs from El Salvador and Panama still to be confirmed. The group stage draw is set for June 3.

Qualified Teams:

• USA: Gotham FC, Orlando Pride, Washington Spirit

• Mexico: Club América Femenil, CF Monterrey Femenil, CF Pachuca Femenil

• Canada: Vancouver Rise Academy

• Costa Rica: LD Alajuelense

• El Salvador & Panama: TBC

🇦🇺 A-League Women Grand Final Preview: Old Guard vs New Generation

This Sunday’s Ninja A-League Women Grand Final is set to be a captivating clash between experience and youth. Melbourne Victory, a club steeped in history, will face off against the up-and-coming Central Coast Mariners, who are making a significant mark after their return last season. Victory’s coach Jeff Hopkins, the most experienced in the league’s history, contrasts with Emily Husband, a rising star in her second year as a head coach. The match also features veteran Emily Gielnik, a decorated Matildas striker, going up against teenager Annalise Rasmussen, who has a bright future ahead. Victory, with a strong record in Grand Finals, are aiming for another win, while the Mariners are looking to cap off their remarkable run after a stunning 121st-minute victory over Melbourne City. This showdown promises a thrilling contest full of intriguing storylines.

The match features some American flair, with Melbourne Victory boasting American-born players Kayla Morrison and Sara D'Appolonia. Morrison, a standout defender, had a brief stint with Portland Thorns FC during the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup before re-signing with Victory. She made history in 2017 as the first Kansas Jayhawk to be named Big 12 Conference Defender of the Year and became an Australian citizen in 2023. D'Appolonia, another American addition, played a key role in Victory's semi-final win, scoring against Adelaide United.

Find out where to watch the A-League Women Final with the TV schedule on W-scores.com.

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 Treble Dreams vs Title Defense: Chelsea and Man United Set for Women’s FA Cup Final Showdown

Wembley is set for a blockbuster as Chelsea and Manchester United clash in the 2025 Adobe Women’s FA Cup Final on May 18. Pop star Olly Murs will kick off the event, adding extra flair to a match already packed with drama. Chelsea, fresh off an unbeaten league title run, aim to complete a domestic treble under new manager Sonia Bompastor, while United hope to retain the trophy they lifted in 2024. Adding to the spotlight, tech entrepreneur and Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian — who just purchased a stake in Chelsea Women — will be among the high-profile figures watching from the stands.

With star power and high stakes on the line, this rematch of last season’s final promises to be a fierce showdown — with strong American representation on both sides. Naomi Girma anchors Chelsea’s defense with calm precision, while Catarina Macario adds creative firepower up front as both look to cap stellar seasons with silverware. Across the pitch, Manchester United’s Phallon Tullis-Joyce, fresh off a Golden Glove–winning campaign, will be key to their hopes in a high-stakes final filled with American star power.

Find out where to watch the Women’s FA Cup Final between Chelsea and Manchester United with the TV schedule on W-scores.com.

This final also caps a landmark week for women’s football in England, following the rebranding of its top two leagues. The Women’s Super League is now simply the Barclays Women’s Super League. At the same time, the second tier, previously known as the Women's Championship, will be called Barclays Women's Super League 2 (WSL2) from next season onwards, aligning more closely with the top flight. And to cap it all off, Everton Women have announced they will make Goodison Park their permanent home from the 2025-26 season!

🌍 European Spotlight: Titles, Finals & New Frontiers

🇪🇸 Barça to celebrate 10th title! The final round of Liga F will take place on Sunday, May 18, at 12:00 PM with all key positions already decided. Barça has clinched their 10th league title, Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid secured the other two UEFA Women’s Champions League spots, and Real Betis and Valencia confirmed relegation. The last round's only remaining interest is the fight for the eighth spot, which offers entry into the Copa de la Reina. Barça will host Athletic Club at the Johan Cruyff Stadium to celebrate their historic achievement.

In the Golden Boot race, Ewa Pajor holds a commanding lead with 23 goals, seven ahead of Barcelona teammate Alexia Putellas and Granada's Edna Imade.

🇫🇷 The 2025 Arkema Première Ligue final will be a thrilling clash between Olympique Lyonnais and Paris Saint-Germain. Lyon, under Joe Montemurro, has been dominant throughout the season, boasting a potent attack and solid defense, though their semi-final defeat to Arsenal in the UWCL, missing out on the final, was a major setback. This final also marks the end of an era for Lyon, as club legend Eugénie Le Sommer prepares to depart after 15 glittering years, over 300 goals, and 33 trophies — a farewell fitting of one of the game’s all-time greats. PSG, managed by Fabrice Abriel, has endured a rollercoaster season marked by injuries and internal drama, yet battled through to reach this decisive match.

The final will also showcase strong American representation on both sides. PSG features veteran Crystal Dunn, rising defender Eva Gaetino, and dynamic midfielder Korbin Albert, while Lyon boasts U.S. captain Lindsey Horan and Sofia Huerta, currently on loan from Seattle Reign FC.

Find out where to watch Lyon Féminin vs PSG Féminines on W-scores.

🇮🇹 The 2025 Coppa Italia Femminile final will see Juventus take on defending champions Roma on Saturday, May 17. Juventus, back in the final after missing out last year, edged past Fiorentina in the semis, while Roma reached their fifth consecutive final with a dominant win over Sassuolo. Both sides aim to cap off their seasons with silverware in what promises to be another fierce chapter of their growing rivalry.

An American talent will also be on display, with Juventus midfielder Abi Brighton part of the Bianconere squad.

Find out where to watch the Coppa Italia Femminile Final between Juventus and AS Roma with the TV schedule on W-scores.com.

🇵🇹 World Sevens Football: High-Stakes Action in Portugal

This May, the inaugural World Sevens Football (W7F) tournament takes place in Estoril, Portugal, from May 21–23, featuring top European clubs like Chelsea, Manchester United, PSG, Bayern Munich, Roma, Benfica, Ajax, and Rosengård. With a $5 million prize pool, the winners will take home $2.5 million, surpassing the UEFA Women’s Champions League prize. The tournament's fast-paced, 7-a-side format includes 30-minute matches, with two groups of four teams competing in a knockout structure, ensuring a high-energy, thrilling experience for both players and fans.

While the competition has garnered excitement for its substantial prize money and star-studded line-up, concerns about player workload ahead of major events like Women’s Euro 2025 have been raised. Despite this, players are eager to compete in the short-format games, which allow them to showcase their talent in a dynamic and entertaining environment.

🌍 Countdown to Glory: Women’s Euro 2025 Sneak Peek

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 With the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 approaching, Nike has revealed England’s new home and away kits, inspired by the legacy of the Lionesses and the trailblazers of the ‘70s and ‘80s. Highlighting national pride and progress, the designs pay tribute to the 2022 champions and future generations, with a standout goalkeeper shirt for stars like Mary Earps. The kits go on sale May 29, ahead of England’s title defense starting July 2 in Switzerland.

🇩🇪 German fans can look forward to a summer of top-tier women’s football as ARD and ZDF broadcast nearly every match of UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 live from Switzerland (July 2–27). The national team, chasing a ninth European title, will face Poland, Denmark, and Sweden in the group stage, with all matches shown live on national TV. Excitement is high following the dramatic 2022 final at Wembley, where Germany’s clash with England drew 18 million viewers and cemented the tournament’s place as a major sporting event.

🇨🇭 The UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 in Switzerland this summer is set to be a landmark event, featuring 16 teams across eight cities and backed by €246 million in investment. With over 550,000 tickets sold, it’s poised to break attendance records and generate up to CHF 193 million economically. UEFA aims to double female football participation in Switzerland and boost league attendances by 2027, supported by a record €41 million prize pool and guaranteed player payouts. Fans will also enjoy free rail travel, emphasizing accessibility and sustainability.

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