NWSL’s reality check, no true frontunners, and Chicago’s issues

Photo courtesy of Concacaf via Gotham FC

As the National Women’s Soccer League ticks towards its final week of action before the summer break, who will separate themselves from the pack of contenders? Does NWSL form have any impact on USWNT inclusion? Finally, the NWSL gets a reality check in the CONCACAF W Champions Cup.

For CONCACAF and NWSL, rising tides lift all boats

Club América’s emphatic victory in the second CONCACAF W Champions Cup sent a strong message about the strength of Liga MX Femenil. Across four matches, Club América and Pachuca outscored NWSL sides — and 2025 NWSL Championship finalists — Washington Spirit and Gotham FC by a combined 12–5. Former NWSL players Geyse and Scarlett Camberos tormented their opponents throughout the tournament. Camberos finished with nine goal contributions and earned Best Player honors, while Geyse added five of her own.

There were mitigating factors. Gotham and Washington arrived in Pachuca after a stretch of league matches on the West Coast, and the altitude — nearly 8,000 feet above sea level — was significant. Even so, both Club América and Pachuca were the better sides in their respective knockout matches. Club América are worthy champions.

If nothing else, the tournament served as a reminder that the NWSL does not sit at the center of women’s soccer in CONCACAF. Reports suggest Liga MX Femenil is now the most-watched women’s domestic league in the world. Two of the world’s best players hail from the region. Neither are American. Jamaica’s Bunny Shaw became one of the highest-paid players in women’s soccer after signing a new deal with Manchester City, while OL Lyonnes’ Melchie Dumornay is poised to lead Haiti to a second consecutive FIFA Women’s World Cup appearance.

They say competition breeds excellence. NWSL should continue to seek out ways to measure up against its continental and global rivals.