With the National Women's Soccer League on the cusp of a breakout season, anticipation is building for a year filled with breakneck pace, razor-thin margins, and championship glory – and it's going to be a wild ride

The league is entering its teenage years, and it's clear that the frenzy is only building, driven by a dozen years of high-stakes showdowns and an army of die-hard fans cheering on their favorite teams. And yet, something about 2024 feels especially exciting—a new wave of international talent, game-changing player transfers, and a passionate fanbase hungry for action. Here's the inside scoop on this season's matches - don't miss a single play!

The 2024 NWSL Landscape: A New Era

To start, the NWSL is evolving in ways that might surprise even the most dedicated fans. Get ready for a league that's breaking free from its old mold - this season's changes are sparking a lot of excitement. Now that the Bay Area team has joined the fray, the league is revamped and ready for takeoff. The revamped 13-team lineup will surely bring an injection of speed, agility, and plain old fun, courtesy of the new players and their novel approaches.

But it’s not just about new teams. Major shake-ups in team rosters and a fresh batch of tactics are poised to make this season one for the books. Star players from every corner of the globe flock to the league. Fresh from stints with elite European teams, several key players have joined the fold, bringing experience and tenacity honed in Australia and South America. With global stars entering the mix, the league becomes a true battle royale - every match an intense, never-say-die affair.

Every NWSL season brings breakout stars and electrifying moments from established players, and 2024 will be no different. Sophia Smith, one of the league’s most prolific scorers, is back with the Portland Thorns and eager to build on last year’s impressive tally. Last season, Smith scored 11 goals, ranking third in the Golden Boot race. Can she top that this year? Perhaps, but she’ll have stiff competition from the likes of Ashley Hatch of the Washington Spirit and Debinha of the Kansas City Current.

Speaking of Washington, Trinity Rodman, fresh off a record-breaking contract extension, will be another player to keep an eye on. In 2023, she had 7 goals and 6 assists. If you watch the live stream of NWSL matches, you might have noticed that her dynamic playmaking ability has only gotten better. Fans of international talent should also pay close attention to Melbourne City’s Kyra Cooney-Cross, who is joining the league this season. Known for her swift ball control and impressive field vision, Cooney-Cross adds another layer of excitement and international flair.

In terms of statistics, last year saw the NWSL’s goal-scoring leader Lynn Williams netting 13 goals for Gotham FC. It remains to be seen if she can replicate or surpass that performance, but Williams is in peak form and has shown she’s capable of producing jaw-dropping moments. With such high-caliber players, expect more hat tricks, clutch assists, and perhaps even record-breaking performances this season.

The Portland Thorns claimed the championship in 2023, making it their third NWSL title. A powerhouse team, they’re coming into 2024 with targets on their backs and determination in their eyes. The Thorns boast a balanced squad, blending experienced veterans like Becky Sauerbrunn with emerging stars such as Olivia Moultrie. If they can maintain this chemistry, it’s possible they’ll lift the trophy again. However, with teams like the San Diego Wave and OL Reign hungry to dethrone them, a repeat is far from guaranteed.

Teams across the league are ramping up their efforts to dethrone Portland. San Diego Wave, for instance, has added depth to their lineup, bringing in defenders to bolster their backline. Expect fierce matches, as these teams are all vying not just for victory but for redemption and pride. The regular season will be filled with matches where every point counts, and you can bet the stakes are higher than ever.

Don’t Miss a Moment: How to Watch the 2024 NWSL Season

Now, with so much action unfolding, how can you keep up? Simple: stay tuned in. The NWSL has expanded its broadcasting partnerships, meaning you have more options than ever to catch the games. CBS Sports will continue to carry select matches on national television, making it easy for fans across the country to tune in. And for those who prefer streaming, Paramount+ is the go-to option, covering every single game live. If you’re overseas, the league has extended its reach through Twitch, which will stream matches globally for free.

You’ll want to keep an eye on the official NWSL app, too. It’s not just for live scores and schedules—this app offers in-depth stats, player profiles, and even behind-the-scenes content that can make following your favorite teams and players more engaging. The app’s notification feature is a lifesaver if you’re prone to forgetting match times. Set alerts, and you’ll receive reminders before the action kicks off, ensuring you never miss a moment.

2024 will be a year of unpredictability and unforgettable moments in the NWSL. Fans will see some of the best players in the world go head-to-head in high-stakes matchups, and with new stars on the rise, records could be shattered. Whether you’re rooting for a favorite team or just love the game, this season will have something for everyone. So, get your calendar ready, mark those game days, and make sure your streaming subscriptions are up to date—this is a season you won’t want to miss.