The NWSL returns for 2023 with more fans and global domination on agenda

T he National Women’s Soccer League commences a new season this weekend in what promises to be an exciting year in the US, straddling a hotly-contested World Cup tournament. Here are some things to keep your eye on as the NWSL’s 12 teams prepare to kick off on Saturday evening.

The NWSL is a parity-driven league, bolstered by the draft and other off-season new signings. There’s no end to its tales of rejuvenation. For better and worse, anything can happen. Let us not forget, this is the league that saw Kansas City Current come last in 2021, then dance with Portland Thorns in the 2022 final.

Kansas City took the league by storm in their revitalisation year. In the off-season, they freshened up even further. The Current approached the college draft as an existential matter, accruing the potential Rookie of the Year candidate Michelle Cooper and snagging Debinha from bidders near and far. With key depth built to bolster them in a World Cup year, they have the talent, depth, management and facilities to make their mark as a powerhouse this season.

In 2023 multiple clubs in key markets hope to plot similar paths of revitalisation. Gotham FC look most likely. With Lynn Williams new on the roster (healthy, scoring, vying for a World Cup spot), Midge Purce poised to make a mark and Yazmeen Ryan acquired, Gotham seem ready to at least return to the playoffs.

Speaking of the playoffs, Houston Dash made their first ever appearance in them last year. They look likely to carry forward that success, bolstering their squad by grabbing the talents of Diana Ordóñez from North Carolina Courage.

On the other hand, Chicago Red Stars made the playoffs last year as well … but just barely. I’ve a feeling an equally small margin will be