The highly anticipated 2026 National Women’s Soccer League season kicks off Friday night with the Washington Spirit facing the Portland Thorns at home. 

Two of the league’s biggest stars, Sophia Wilson and Trinity Rodman, will face off in this game. These two are part of the U.S. Women’s National Team’s famous “Triple Espresso” with Chicago’s Mallory Swanson.

This season will feature many returning players, including the entire Triple Espresso, and also plenty of new players. Both Swanson and Wilson will be returning from maternity leave, and fans hope to see them return to their former greatness. 

Tessa Dellarose, a Pittsburgh native and former Pittsburgh Riveter, will be playing for the Chicago Stars. Jasmine Aikey is another incoming rookie and 2025 MAC Hermann Trophy winner. Both of these players will be exciting to watch this season. 

Aikey will play for one of the two new expansion teams, the Denver Summit. The other expansion team is Boston Legacy FC. Both teams have signed big players to start their inaugural season. 

Denver Summit’s biggest player is Lindsey Heaps, who has not played in the NWSL since 2021 with the Portland Thorns. Heaps thrived with OL Lyonnes in Europe, but she is thrilled to play in her hometown. 

Boston Legacy’s biggest star, Amanda Gutierres, is a strong attacking talent and will play a large role in their inaugural season. 

Gotham FC, the reigning champions, is home to the 2025 Rookie of the Year, Lilly Reale. Expectations are high for Reale this season, as she started in 21 matches last year and led her team in interceptions. 

Kansas City’s Temwa Chawinga, who has won both MVP and the Golden Boot for two consecutive years, also has high expectations set for her this season, with fans wondering if she can achieve a three-peat. 

Overall, the NWSL is always chaotic and entertaining, so this season will be another great one to watch. The season opener can be watched on Prime Video at 8 p.m. Friday.