With the 2025 NWSL regular season heading into its final stretch, standout performances are enriching the postseason landscape. As individual efforts clearly make an impact, it’s time to honor those who shone brightest in the penultimate week.
Goalkeeper: Jane Campbell (Houston Dash)
Despite Houston’s struggles this season, Campbell’s six saves against the league’s top team were pivotal, showcasing her skill.
Defender: Kerry Abello (Orlando Pride)
After conceding an own goal, she quickly leveled the score for the Pride, proving her resilience.
“KERRY ABELLO ANSWERS IMMEDIATELY FOR THE PRIDE 🙌
The Pride have their equalizer and it’s GAME ON on CBS!” — W Golazo (@WGolazo) October 18, 2025
Defender: Kristen McNabb (Kansas City Current)
McNabb contributed significantly for the Wave, helping them regain their offensive dynamism.
“FOUR FIRST HALF GOALS 🤯
McNabb connects and this Wave squad is having an absolutely clinical night 👏” — W Golazo (@WGolazo) October 19, 2025
Defender: Rafaelle (Orlando Pride)
Her defensive skills shone through with critical clearances and interceptions that maintained pressure.
“Rafaelle’s play at the back is essential to the Pride’s strength.”
Defender: Janine Sonis (Racing Louisville FC)
Shifting from attack to defense, Sonis proved invaluable during Racing’s struggles.
“A perfect setup from Sears and a flawless finish from Sonis.”
Midfielder: Jaelin Howell (Gotham FC)
Howell has been a rock in Gotham’s midfield, controlling the tempo and scoring long-range goals.
“HOWELL TAKE A BOW 🤩
Perfect placement from distance against her former club.”
Midfielder: Olivia Moultrie (Portland Thorns FC)
Playing beyond her years, the young star shines in Portland’s offensive line-up.
“OLIVIA MOULTRIE STUNNER 🤩💫
She nets her 7th of the season to lead Thorns.”
Midfielder: Rose Lavelle (Gotham FC)
Lavelle’s critical free kick display has kept Gotham in the playoff race.
“LAVELLE FREE KICK GOLAZO TO EQUALIZE 🤯🚀”
Forward: Marta (Orlando Pride)
Marta’s presence has energized Orlando’s lineup as she continues making impactful appearances.
“ONE MINUTE IN AND ORLANDO HAS THE EQUALIZER 🤯”
Forward: Manaka Matsukubo (North Carolina Courage)
Matsukubo has displayed MVP-caliber performances, including an astonishing hat trick.
“MANAKA JUST SCORED A BRACE IN UNDER TEN MINUTES 🤯😳”
Forward: Dudinha (San Diego Wave FC)
Her two-goal feat reflects her potential to energize the squad.
“DUDINHA BRACE ALERT 🚨”
Coach: Fabrice Gautrat (Houston Dash)
Under Gautrat, Houston made an impressive comeback, defeating the top-ranked team.
Honorary captains: Player retirements
Celebrating retirements during week 25, including Lauren Barnes, Ali Riley, Christen Press, Kristen Hamilton, and Mallory Weber, who have all contributed significantly to the league.
