Anticipation for the 2025 NWSL season is growing as 14 teams prepare to battle it out over 26 matches in an intense tournament schedule. Teams have participated in preseason activities like Coachella Valley Invitational tournament, where they sharpen up strategies and teamwork while strengthening strategies against their rivals.
Coachella Valley Invitational provides clubs like Angel City and Seattle Reign as well as NWSL teams a unique chance to compete pre-season competition in California’s Coachella Valley region. Dubbed as a soccer paradise by LA Galaxy, AEG (Anschutz Entertainment Group) and Empire Polo Club – it takes place each January near Indio, CA.
The Genesis of the Coachella Valley Invitational
The event first made its mark behind closed doors with just six MLS teams. It expanded in its second year to include 12 MLS teams and one USL Championship team, San Diego Loyal FC, opening the matches to ticket holders for the first time. The 2024 edition saw remarkable growth, attracting 30,000 attendees and extending over a week to include 18 teams, marking the debut of four National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) teams. Despite these expansions, the organizers ensured an intimate setting by capping attendance at 5,000 spectators per match day. Now in its fourth year, the tournament has grown to feature 14 MLS and six NWSL teams over three weeks in February.
Noteworthy Performances and Upcoming Matches
In what marks their second appearance at the event, NWSL teams have shown promising performances. Six teams, including Angel City, San Diego Wave, Portland Thorns, Seattle Reign, Bay FC, and Houston Dash, participated, with Angel City securing a win against the Portland Thorns in a thrilling match. Meanwhile, the game between San Diego Wave and Houston Dash ended in a draw, and Seattle Reign managed a narrow victory over Bay FC.
As this tournament progresses, it promises to deliver even more dramatic matches and highlight exciting matchups as teams vie to improve their skills for next year’s NWSL campaign.
Viewing Options for Fans
Fans who wish to catch all the action have several avenues available, from broadcasts on Women’s Sports Network and FOX KCOP-TV, Angel City streaming live matches via their official YouTube channel and broadcasters like FOX KCOP-TV; to livestreaming these matches directly. With such access available to them, supporters will experience all of the thrills and camaraderie associated with NWSL preseason like never before!