The 2023 National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) regular season has showcased, once again, why it is considered the most competitive league in the world. With its history of unpredictability and intense matchups, this year took the league’s competitiveness to a new level.
An iconic moment from the 2023 season they have occurred when the Portland Thorns faced Racing Louisville at the Lynn Family Stadium. Both teams dealt with injuries and suspensions, but Louisville seemed more depleted. Players like Nadia Nadim, Savannah DeMelo, Carson Pickett, and Jaelin Howell were sidelined. On the other hand, the Thorns were missing their star forward, Sophia Smith, and were facing one of the most demanding travel schedules in the league.
Regarding statistics, Portland had a significant lead with an 18-goal advantage in non-penalty expected goal difference (following). On paper, it seemed like a sure victory for Portland. However, this is where the NWSL’s unique competitiveness comes into play.
During the match, Louisville secured a surprising 2-1 victory over the Thorns. The game’s expected goals (xG) were 2-1, indicating that the outcome was not a statistical anomaly. While perhaps a bit fluky, plans by Abby Erceg and Thembi Kgatlana resulted from consistent pressure on an open Portland defense. Louisville outplayed Portland and earned a well-deserved win.
In most soccer leagues, such an outcome would be considered a significant upset, sending shockwaves throughout the community. However, the NWSL thrives on its reputation for being unpredictable and competitive. Since the league’s inception, the phrase “on any given day” has become a mantra among fans, players, coaches, and media.
In the 11th season of the NWSL, a mere 11 points separated the first-place team from the last in the 12-team league. Eight teams fiercely compete for just four playoff spots as Decision Day approaches. The fact that Louisville could outplay and defeat Portland on a seemingly random Saturday in September perfectly embodies the essence of the NWSL.
This is a league where underdogs can rise to the occasion and established powerhouses can be humbled. It’s a place where fans can expect the unexpected and where every match showcases skill, determination, and passion. The 2023 NWSL season has once again proven that it stands out as the epitome of competitive soccer, where anything can happen, and the love for the game runs deep.
Originally posted 2023-10-11 20:21:03.
