The 2025 NWSL regular season is officially in its final weeks, with only six matches remaining for teams to secure playoff positions. This week’s analysis reflects standout performances from various athletes, where new players are making significant impacts.
After evaluating the past week’s NWSL matches, the Attacking Third analysts curate a lineup, including a coach and an honorary captain, based on player performances.
Best XI:
Goalkeeper: Jordan Silkowitz (Bay FC)
Silkowitz excelled with eight saves, crucial for Bay FC in a challenging match.
Quote: “We present to you, the Save of the Week. Jordan Silkowitz #ORLvBAY pic.twitter.com/ujsP7aQdb8” — Bay Football Club (@wearebayfc)
Defender: Izzy Rodriguez (Kansas City Current)
Rodriguez proved vital in defense and contributed to the team’s clean sheet.
Quote: “Izzy with the quick reaction block 🙌 13th shutout of the season & we’re tied with the NWSL record 😮💨” — KC Current - x (@thekccurrent)
Defender: Sam Staab (Chicago Stars FC)
Staab exemplified consistency, maintaining the Stars’ unbeaten streak.
Defender: Tara McKeown (Washington Spirit)
Earning a spot for her impressive defensive work during a shorthanded match.
Quote: “I’m a big fan, love watching her play… she did exactly that,” said analyst Jen Beattie.
Defender: Janine Sonis (Racing Louisville FC)
Sonis stood strong in defense while typically playing as a forward.
Midfielder: Brianna Pinto (North Carolina Courage)
Pinto scored a critical goal, securing her team’s place in playoff discussions.
Quote: “BRIANNA PINTO MAKES IT TWO ✌️ North Carolina Courage” — Attacking Third (@AttackingThird)
Midfielder: Jaedyn Shaw (Gotham FC)
Shaw showcased her worth soon after joining the team with a goal on her debut.
Midfielder: Leicy Santos (Washington Spirit)
Santos was a significant playmaker, showcasing skills both offensively and defensively.
Forward: Esther Gonzalez (Gotham FC)
Gonzalez leads the Golden Boot race, solidifying her role as a key player.
Forward: Manaka Matsukubo (North Carolina Courage)
Her exceptional movement on the pitch earned her a place this week.
Forward: Jacqueline Ovalle (Orlando Pride)
Ovalle made her presence known with a remarkable assist to equalize during her debut.
Coach: Adrian Gonzalez (Washington Spirit)
Gonzalez’s strategic lineup demonstrated his ability to lead effectively.
Honorary Captain: Savannah DeMelo
Following medical attention on field, DeMelo is now stable, showing resilience and underscoring the importance of medical teams in sports, honored alongside her staff as honorary captains this week.
