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How considerably has Sydney Leroux’s absence impacted teh Orlando Pride‘s offensive output?
Table of Contents
- 1. How considerably has Sydney Leroux’s absence impacted teh Orlando Pride’s offensive output?
- 2. Orlando Pride in a Slump: NWSL Power Rankings Update
- 3. Current Form & Recent Performances
- 4. NWSL Power Rankings – Week 22 (August 25, 2025)
- 5. Key Players & Injury Updates
- 6. Tactical Analysis: Where is the Pride Falling Short?
- 7. Looking Ahead: Upcoming Fixtures & Potential Turnaround
- 8. Fan Engagement & Community Events
- 9. NWSL Playoff picture & Orlando’s Chances
Orlando Pride in a Slump: NWSL Power Rankings Update
Current Form & Recent Performances
The Orlando Pride are facing a challenging stretch, currently experiencing a dip in form that’s impacting their standing in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). After a promising start too the 2025 season, a recent string of draws and losses has seen them slide down the NWSL power rankings. Their last five games have yielded just one win, two draws, and two defeats, raising concerns about their consistency and ability to secure a playoff spot. Key issues include a struggling attack and defensive vulnerabilities exposed in recent matches against Portland and San Diego.
Recent Results:
August 10th: Orlando Pride 1 – 2 Portland Thorns
August 17th: orlando Pride 0 – 0 Washington Spirit
August 21st: Orlando Pride 1 – 3 San Diego Wave
NWSL Power Rankings – Week 22 (August 25, 2025)
Here’s a look at where the Orlando Pride currently stand in the latest NWSL power rankings, alongside key contenders:
- San Diego Wave FC (Dominant form, strong goal difference)
- Portland Thorns FC (consistent performers, playoff contenders)
- Kansas City Current (Impressive attacking power)
- North Carolina Courage (Solid defensive record)
- OL Reign (Fighting for a playoff position)
- orlando Pride (Sliding down, needs a turnaround)
- Washington Spirit (Inconsistent results)
- Chicago Red Stars (Struggling to find form)
- Houston Dash (Facing challenges in attack)
- angel City FC (Battling for every point)
- Racing louisville FC (Tough season)
- NJ/NY Gotham FC (Underperforming expectations)
Note: Rankings are subjective and based on a combination of recent performance, overall record, and expert analysis.
Key Players & Injury Updates
The Pride’s struggles aren’t solely down to team tactics. Several key players have been dealing with injuries, impacting squad depth and consistency.
Sydney leroux: Currently sidelined with a hamstring strain, expected to return in approximately 3 weeks. Her absence is keenly felt in the attacking third.
Emily Madsen: Recovered from a minor ankle injury and is back in training, providing a boost to the midfield.
Mia Fishel: Continues to be a consistent threat, leading the team in goals despite the overall slump. Her form is crucial for any potential turnaround.
Abby Erceg: the veteran defender remains a stalwart in the backline, but even her experience can’t fully compensate for the team’s defensive issues.
Tactical Analysis: Where is the Pride Falling Short?
A closer look at the Pride’s recent games reveals several tactical shortcomings.
- Midfield Control: Losing possession in key areas of the midfield is leading to quick transitions for opponents and scoring opportunities.
- Defensive Organization: Lack of dialog and coordination in the defensive line is resulting in preventable goals. Set-piece defending has been particularly weak.
- Attacking Creativity: The Pride are becoming predictable in attack, relying too heavily on individual brilliance rather than cohesive team play. The absence of leroux exacerbates this issue.
- Finishing: Converting chances remains a problem.While they create opportunities, the conversion rate is significantly lower than top NWSL teams.
Looking Ahead: Upcoming Fixtures & Potential Turnaround
The Pride face a crucial period in their season. Upcoming fixtures will test their resilience and determine their playoff chances.
August 28th: vs. kansas City Current (away) – A tough test against a high-scoring opponent.
September 3rd: vs. Chicago Red Stars (Home) – An prospect to secure three points against a struggling team.
September 7th: vs. North Carolina Courage (Away) – A challenging match against a defensively solid side.
potential Turnaround Strategies:
Strengthen Midfield: Prioritize regaining control of the midfield through tactical adjustments and player positioning.
Improve Defensive Communication: Focus on improving communication and organization within the defensive line.
Creative Attacking Play: Introduce more variety and creativity in attack, utilizing quick passing and movement.
* Clinical Finishing: Work on improving finishing in training, focusing on composure and accuracy in front of goal.
Fan Engagement & Community Events
Despite the on-field struggles, the Orlando Pride continue to foster a strong connection with their fanbase. The team recently participated in a “Trans & Non-Binary Family Picnic” (Visitorlando.com, 2025), demonstrating their commitment to inclusivity and community engagement. This event, and others like it, are vital for building a loyal fanbase and creating a positive atmosphere around the club. This commitment to inclusivity is a key differentiator for the Pride within the NWSL.
NWSL Playoff picture & Orlando’s Chances
The NWSL playoff race is incredibly competitive. currently, the top six teams qualify for the postseason. The Pride are currently outside the playoff picture, but a strong run of form could
