The 2025 NWSL regular season is entering its final quarter, with just seven match weeks remaining. Time is running out for teams in the playoff chase, and week 19 showcased the league’s competitiveness, with lower-seeded teams achieving victories against higher-ranked opponents. As a result of standout performances, it’s time to announce this week’s Team of the Week.
After analyzing the weekend’s matches throughout the 2025 NWSL season, the Attacking Third analysts have put together a team of the week as well as a head coach and honorary captain based on weekend performances. If you’d like to review previous selections, you can refer to our selections from week 18 here.
Goalkeeper: Jane Campbell (Houston Dash)
Another week has gone by with goalkeepers showcasing spectacular performances, with Jane Campbell earning this week’s honor. The long-serving Dash keeper had been sharing time in net with Abby Smith this season, but her shutout against San Diego affirmed why she remains Houston’s starting goalkeeper.
“Jane Campbell was ready for that one 🫡” pic.twitter.com/Je23LH7kIB
Defender: Bruninha (Gotham FC)
For a second consecutive week, Brazilian international Bruninha makes the Team of the Week. Together with rookie Lily Reale, she is establishing a formidable fullback duo for Gotham. This week, she led defenders in duels against Angel City FC.
“She’s just got rizz, she’s a cheat code,” said Attacking Third analyst Satara Murray. “She’s out here megging people left, right, and center. I’m here for it.”
Defender: Sam Staab (Chicago Stars FC)
Centerback Sam Staab made history by scoring the first goal at the Stars’ new home ground.
“Sam Staab goes straight to goal on a STUNNING free kick 🎯 The Stars take the first lead of the match early in the second half ‼️” pic.twitter.com/ewK858ipXp
Defender: Esme Morgan (Washington Spirit)
Despite managing player minutes to balance the match load, Esme Morgan’s contribution in the backline proved crucial, as she helped maintain a clean sheet against the Seattle Reign.
“She’s very consistent… I love a defender that keeps it simple and wins their challenges, and that’s what Esme did for 90 minutes,” said Murray.
Defender: Paige Nielsen (Houston Dash)
Another impressive performance from Houston Dash sees Paige Nielsen focusing on defensive solidity and contributed to the shutout over San Diego this week.
“In her last four starts, she’s tallied 25 clearances and 10 interceptions. She has brought stability to the defense,” Christine Cupo shared on Attacking Third.
Midfielder: Jaelin Howell (Gotham FC)
Holding midfielder Jaelin Howell consistently disrupts plays while contributing in attack. Her powerful shot from outside the box was a significant moment in Gotham’s push for a playoff spot.
“Jaelin Howell with an UNBELIEVABLE effort!” pic.twitter.com/1m1jaFk6AW
Midfielder: Julia Grosso (Chicago Stars FC)
Julia Grosso was instrumental for the Stars with an assist and a goal in their match against Orlando.
“FOUR FOR THE STARS 💫 Julia Grosso adds one of her own as the Stars continue their domination 💪” pic.twitter.com/OVAdGXouyy
Midfielder: Leicy Santos (Washington Spirit)
Returning to the starting lineup, Leicy Santos facilitated Rodman’s opening goal with a brilliant lob.
“Trinity Rodman making sure Rowdy Audi lives up to the name 🗣️🏟️” pic.twitter.com/PF7boke8Jj
Forward: Temwa Chawinga (Kansas City Current)
Temwa Chawinga scored her 12th goal of the season, solidifying her position in the Golden Boot race.
Forward: Trinity Rodman (Washington Spirit)
Rodman returned from injury and scored twice as she got back into her rhythm in the second half of the season.
“That Trinity Rodman x Croix Bethune connection is ELITE 🤩” pic.twitter.com/11ktyVsH46
Forward: Ludmila (Chicago Stars FC)
After winning Player of the Month for August, Ludmila remains a strong contender for the Golden Boot race with her 10th goal.
“IT’S NOT A GOAL PARTY WITHOUT LUDMILA 🎉” pic.twitter.com/1v6564BlNR
Coach: Fabrice Gautrat (Houston Dash)
Fabrice Gautrat has propelled Houston Dash into a formidable team, highlighted by the ongoing six-game unbeaten streak.
Honorary Captain: Alex Morgan
In recognition of her monumental influence on the sport, Alex Morgan received honors with her jersey retirement by San Diego Wave FC.
