As Week 22 of the 2025 NWSL season approaches, pivotal outcomes could unfold, particularly for teams vying for playoff spots. The Kansas City Current have been unstoppable, securing their place in the playoffs early on and dominating the standings. Having already clinched a playoff berth, a top-4 and top-2 finish, as well as the prestigious NWSL Shield presented by CarMax, their eyes are firmly set on claiming the championship title this season.
Kansas City’s journey has not only been efficient but historic. They secured the NWSL Shield—a significant achievement that marks the fastest clinch in league history with five games remaining. This Shield, the first for Kansas City and coach Vlatko Andonovski, allows them to participate in the next season’s NWSL Challenge Cup and the CONCACAF W Champions Cup, a stepping stone to the FIFA Women’s Club World Cup.
This weekend, the focus shifts to which teams will continue in the fight for the championship and who might be left out. The Washington Spirit has the opportunity to secure a playoff berth with a win against Houston or under a combination of results from other matches. Conversely, the Chicago Stars face potential elimination with either a loss or a draw in their upcoming matchup against Kansas City.
Kansas City’s dominance extends to securing home playoff games through the semifinals, with no other team having the chance to claim a home match this weekend. This level of performance highlights their strong season, adding pressure on other teams to rise to the occasion or face the end of their playoff dreams.
With Kansas City’s feats leading the narrative this season, fans and teams alike are poised for an exciting weekend as the race for playoff spots intensifies. The stage is set for dramatic turns in the journey to the NWSL Championship.