The 2025 NWSL regular season is settling in as the league approaches its quartermark, and the Attacking Third crew is back with their team of the week. After a week of fixtures, standout performances have led to the selection of the best XI and a coach based on remarkable contributions.

With eight weeks under the belt, several players have returned to the spotlight while some newcomers make their entry. Keep tabs on our previous selections for the week if you want to catch up on who made the cut not too long ago.

Fans can watch select NWSL regular season matches across CBS platforms, including CBS, CBS Sports Network, Paramount+, and CBS Sports Golazo Network.

Best XI:

Goalkeeper: Abby Smith (Houston Dash)

The veteran goalkeeper was pivotal during Houston’s match against Seattle, stepping in for Jane Campbell. She made significant contributions in training and performed exceptionally by keeping a clean sheet in her first start since August 2023.

“ABBY SMITH HOLDS IT DOWN FOR @HOUSTONDASH TO KEEP THE SCORE 🧱 pic.twitter.com/I1tC4QydZt” — Attacking Third (@AttackingThird)

Defender: Perle Morroni (San Diego Wave FC)

Morroni displayed impressive mobility, often moving higher on the field and facilitating play, crucially assisting San Diego’s lone goal against the Thorns.

Defender: Sam Staab (Chicago Stars FC)

In spite of Chicago’s struggles, Staab has been a steadfast presence with excellent attacking contributions, including a goal against her former club.

“Back from injury, she doesn’t just have a long throw and a banging left foot, she can put them away too,” commented Darian Jenkins on Attackig Third.

Defender: Tara McKeown (Washington Spirit)

McKeown was decisive against Chicago with her ability to contribute effectively to the attack while seamlessly connecting with teammates.

“Served up beautifully by Tara McKeown, and Rosemonde Kouassi makes no mistake! 🎯⚽️” — Attacking Third (@AttackingThird)

Defender: Hailie Mace (Kansas City Current)

Mace was instrumental offensively for Kansas City, recording two assists while exhibiting consistency and commendable teamwork.

Midfielder: Taylor Flint (Racing Louisville FC)

Flint’s stellar performance included scoring the game-winning goal, helping Louisville finally find their rhythm this season.

Midfielder: Denise O’Sullivan (North Carolina Courage)

O’Sullivan’s reliability remained crucial for Courage in their tactical approach against Orlando Pride.

Midfielder: Debinha (Kansas City Current)

Returning to our weekly spot, Debinha’s exceptional performance included two goals against Bay FC and strong performances throughout the season.

“OFF THE FREE KICK! MAKE THAT TWO FOR DEBINHA!💥” — Attacking Third (@AttackingThird)

Forward: Rosemonde Kouassi (Washington Spirit)

Kouassi’s return from injury saw her score and assist during the clash with Chicago, embodying chaos and efficiency.

Forward: Temwa Chawinga (Kansas City Current)

Chawinga ended her goal drought in a significant win for the Current amidst injury management.

Forward: Christen Press (Angel City FC)

Press’s agility and impact were undeniable as she made waves in a short stint on the field against Angel City.

“CHRISTEN PRESS IS A GAME CHANGER ‼️💥” — Attacking Third (@AttackingThird)

Coach: Bev Yanez (Racing Louisville FC)

Coach Yanez’s leadership during two lighting delays kept her team focused and ultimately led to important back-to-back wins.