Reigning NWSL champions Gotham FC begin their title defense March 14 at Gillette Stadium against expansion side Boston Legacy. The match kicks off a season that includes two new teams, bringing the league total to 14 clubs.

Gotham's Rose Lavelle, who scored the championship winner against Washington Spirit, returns as tournament MVP. Her performance helped secure Gotham’s first title since 2016 in front of a sold-out crowd last November.

The 2026 NWSL season features 30-match schedules for each team and includes a midsummer break during the FIFA World Cup. Expansion teams Denver Summit and Boston Legacy will play their inaugural matches on March 14. The playoffs are scheduled for November.