When: Saturday, March 15th - 12:45 pm ET
READ: How to Watch the NWSL on ABC and ESPN+
The 2025 NWSL season is about to kick off and this weekend’s showdown between the Kansas City Current and Portland Thorns FC will be a must-watch battle. These two clubs have put on some of the most epic battles in the last few seasons, including last season’s nine-goal stunner, and with the heightened drama of kickoff weekend, here’s why you can’t miss this match.
1. Mackenzie Arnold vs. Temwa Chawinga
Portland’s co-captain Mackenzie Arnold brings a wealth of experience to the Thorns, having competed in top leagues around the world while anchoring the Matildas’ defense on the international stage. As she enters her first full season in Portland, she’ll be tested by one of the league’s most electrifying forwards. Kansas City’s Temwa Chawinga made history last season, scoring against every NWSL opponent and smashing the single-season goal record en route to the Golden Boot and MVP. With blistering speed and a lethal finishing touch, she’s become one of the most feared strikers in the world. This head-to-head battle between a world-class goalkeeper and a red-hot goal scorer is set to keep fans on the edge of their seats all match long.
2. Kansas City Current’s Unfinished Business
Kansas City came agonizingly close to a championship run last season, falling in the 2024 NWSL semifinals. Now, they enter 2025 with unfinished business and all the pieces in place to make a title push including Brazilian Olympic silver medalist Lorena. With Temwa Chawinga spearheading the attack, a rock-solid midfield, and an ambitious vision, this could be the year the Current finally break through. But will they find their moment? This season opener is the first glimpse at whether they can turn potential into dominance.
3. A Rebuilt Portland Thorns Looking to Reclaim Glory
Portland reloaded in the offseason, bringing in key additions like Sam Hiatt from Gotham FC and Deyna Castellanos from Bay FC to strengthen their squad. After an up-and-down 2024, the Thorns are hungry to reclaim their spot at the top and restore their championship pedigree. This match will be the fans’ first real look at how this retooled squad comes together—and how dangerous they might be in 2025.
4. CPKC Stadium, Home of Some of the Most Passionate Fans
If you love watching passionate, sold-out crowds, this is the match for you. CPKC Stadium, the first bespoke women’s soccer stadium in the world, will be rocking for the Current’s season opener. This same venue hosted the 2024 NWSL Championship, and Kansas City’s fans have built a reputation for being one of the loudest, most dedicated groups in the league. Expect a boisterous, electric atmosphere that makes this showdown even more thrilling for fans at home.
5. A National TV Showcase on ABC
There’s nothing like a brunch-time NWSL showdown on national TV, and this match is the perfect stage for the league’s rising stars and elite talent. With both teams chasing the ideal start to their season and playing in a high-energy atmosphere, this game has all the ingredients for a thrilling, can’t-miss broadcast—best enjoyed with a side of pancakes and a mimosa in hand.
With fans ready for NWSL chaos after a long offseason, this will surely be the perfect game to start your Saturday right. Don’t miss the action this Saturday at 12:45 PM ET on ABC/ESPN+!
