Sat Apr 12 23:00:00 UTC 2025: ## NWSL Season Kicks Off Week 4 with Record-Breaking Potential
**Salt Lake City, UT** – The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) returns from its international break this weekend, kicking off Week 4 of the 2025 season with a packed schedule of exciting matchups. Several key storylines are set to unfold, featuring rising stars, veteran prowess, and potential record-breaking performances.
Friday night’s game between the Portland Thorns and Utah Royals, broadcast live on Prime Video, sets the stage. The Thorns boast goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold, who has impressively saved the first two penalties faced in her NWSL career, a feat only matched by AD Franch. Utah, however, will be looking to continue their recent success against Portland, having won their last two encounters. Royals forward Ally Sentnor’s long-range shooting will be tested against Portland’s strong defense.
Other key matchups include:
* **Washington Spirit vs. Louisville Racing:** The Spirit, unbeaten in their last eight matches against Louisville, aim for their second-ever season start with two road wins. Ashley Hatch’s goal-scoring threat against Racing, and Louisville’s Emma Sears, who scored a match-winner last week, are players to watch. The game will be available on NWSL+, Paramount+, and Golazo.
* **Houston Dash vs. Angel City FC:** This rivalry, marked by close matches and draws, sees two young teams vying for dominance. Angel City’s Kennedy Fuller continues her strong start, while Houston’s Natalie Jacobs and Maggie Graham look to build on their early success.
* **Orlando Pride vs. OL Reign:** The high-scoring Pride, off to a historic 3-0 start, face a Seattle team looking to rebound after a recent loss. Marta’s penalty-scoring streak is also a key storyline.
* **Kansas City Current vs. San Diego Wave:** The Current, on a perfect 3-0 start, aim for a fourth consecutive win, a feat achieved by only three teams in NWSL history. Temwa Chawinga is one game away from breaking the NWSL record for consecutive regular-season goals. San Diego’s young talent, including Chiamaka Okwuchukwu, will be a force to contend with.
* **Gotham FC vs. North Carolina Courage:** Gotham, strong defensively, hosts an unbeaten-on-the-road Courage team facing a seven-match winless streak. Goalkeepers Casey Murphy (Courage) and the Gotham defense will be crucial.
* **Bay FC vs. Chicago Stars FC:** Bay FC aims to extend their home dominance against a Chicago side on a seven-game losing streak. Alyssa Naeher’s pursuit of her 50th clean sheet adds another layer of intrigue.
The weekend promises a thrilling showcase of talent and competition, highlighting the bright future and exciting rivalries shaping the 2025 NWSL season. Fans can catch the action across various streaming platforms, including NWSL+, Paramount+, and Prime Video.
First Piper 