NWSL Preseason Action Heats Up Ahead of 2026 Season
As the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) gears up for the 2026 regular season, preseason matches have provided an early glimpse into team form, new signings, and emerging talent. With the season opener just weeks away, several clubs have showcased their potential through friendly tournaments and exhibition games. Here’s a look at the most notable performances and key takeaways from the latest preseason action.
Portland Thorns FC Display Offensive Firepower
Portland Thorns FC, perennial contenders, have started 2026 preseason with a bang. In a recent friendly against a collegiate all-star team, the Thorns dominated with a 4-1 victory. Sophia Smith, the 2022 NWSL MVP, looked sharp, netting a brace in the first half with clinical finishing. New signing midfielder Hina Sugita, who joined from INAC Kobe Leonessa, also impressed with her vision, setting up a goal with a pinpoint through ball. Coach Rhian Wilkinson appears to be experimenting with a more attacking 4-3-3 formation, which could signal an aggressive approach for the upcoming season. For Thorns fans, this early chemistry between veterans and newcomers is a promising sign, especially after a disappointing semifinal exit last year.
San Diego Wave FC’s Defensive Solidity
Over on the West Coast, San Diego Wave FC has prioritized defensive organization in their preseason outings. In a tightly contested 1-0 win over a USL W League side, the Wave’s backline, anchored by Naomi Girma, was impenetrable. Girma, a rising star for both club and country, intercepted numerous attacks and demonstrated her composure under pressure. The Wave also debuted their offseason acquisition, center-back Alana Cook, who seamlessly integrated into the squad. With goalkeeper Kailen Sheridan continuing to command the box, San Diego could be building one of the league’s stingiest defenses—a critical asset as they aim to improve on last season’s mid-table finish.
Rookie Watch: Utah Royals’ Rising Star
The Utah Royals, who returned to the NWSL in 2024 after a brief hiatus, are turning heads with their rookie forward, Mia Corbin. Drafted in the first round of the 2026 NWSL Draft out of the University of California, Corbin has scored in back-to-back preseason games, including a stunning long-range strike against a regional opponent. Her speed and knack for positioning have drawn comparisons to early-career Christen Press. Royals head coach Amy Rodriguez noted post-match, “Mia’s hunger is evident—she’s earning her minutes.” If Corbin can translate this form into the regular season, Utah may have found a cornerstone for their rebuilding efforts.
Tactical Trends and Implications
Beyond individual performances, preseason has revealed evolving tactical trends across the league. Several teams, including the Chicago Red Stars and Racing Louisville FC, are experimenting with high-pressing systems, likely influenced by the success of European clubs like Barcelona Femení. Meanwhile, defending champions Gotham FC are focusing on squad rotation, giving significant minutes to younger players as they manage the workload of stars like Lynn Williams and Ali Krieger (if still active). These early games, while not always indicative of regular-season results, offer clues about how coaches are addressing last year’s shortcomings and integrating new talent.
Why This Matters
Preseason isn’t just about fitness—it’s a proving ground for roster decisions and strategic adjustments. For fans, it’s the first chance to see how offseason moves translate on the pitch. Teams like Portland and San Diego are signaling championship intent, while underdogs like Utah are building momentum with fresh faces. As the NWSL continues to grow in competitiveness, these early indicators could shape narratives for the 2026 campaign. With parity tighter than ever, a strong start out of the gate will be crucial for playoff positioning.
As more preseason results roll in, NWSL News will keep you updated on key developments. For now, the league looks poised for another thrilling year of women’s soccer. Which team has caught your eye in these early matches? Let us know in the comments.