NWSL Team of the Week: The Golden Boot Battle Intensifies with Goals from Esther Gonzalez and Barbra Banda
Soccer/Sports

NWSL Team of the Week: The Golden Boot Battle Intensifies with Goals from Esther Gonzalez and Barbra Banda

Highlights from NWSL week 12 featuring standout players and their contributions as the season progresses.

The 2025 NWSL regular season is advancing, approaching its midpoint, and week 12 showcased substantial action as teams vie for points before the summer break. From the leading teams down to those lower in the standings, individual performances have played a crucial role. This week, the analysts from Attacking Third have compiled a best XI and a coach based on outstanding performances over the weekend. Some of the players, like those from Orlando, Kansas City, and San Diego, have become regular features, while others represent teams that have rarely been spotlighted. If you want to keep a close watch on who has made past lineups, refer to our Best XI from week 11.

As for the upcoming week 12, fans can catch select NWSL regular season matches on CBS platforms, including CBS, CBS Sports Network, Paramount+, and CBS Sports Golazo Network.

Goalkeeper: Anna Moorehouse (Orlando Pride)

Anna Moorehouse has continuously improved since last season, contributing significantly to Orlando’s previous success in winning the Shield and NWSL Championship. Her presence is a calming influence for her teammates, allowing them to maintain composure in close matches. With a save percentage of 82.2%, she leads all goalkeepers and is tied for most clean sheets this season with five.

Goalkeeper Anna Moorehouse

Defender: Reyna Reyes (Portland Thorns FC)

The Mexican international put on a show this week, consistently applying pressure as Portland faced Washington Spirit. Leading her team in touches (64), Reyes was an outlet for her teammates, continually supporting the midfield throughout the match, proving essential in both attack and defense.

Defender: Kayla Sharples (Kansas City Current)

A mainstay in the Current’s defense, Sharples has reappeared in our Best XI for her significant contributions during critical moments. With eight clearances this past week, she played a vital role in helping Kansas City maintain an elite defensive record.

Defender: Emily Sams (Orlando Pride)

Returning to our Best XI, last year’s Defender of the Year, Emily Sams, continues to dominate the pitch with her impressive speed and defensive capabilities. Leading her side in both touches (91) and tackles (five), Sams is a pivotal player in Orlando’s backline.

Defender: Cori Dyke (Orlando Pride)

Following an impressive performance leading to a game-winning goal last week, Dyke continued to excel with solid contributions in Week 12. Though she did not score this time, she effectively curtailed opposing advances, recording ten clearances.

Midfielder: Sam Coffey (Portland Thorns FC)

As the season nears its midpoint, Coffey stands out as one of the leading candidates for midfielder of the year. Constantly directing play and winning the ball, she is a fundamental piece of the Thorns’ success.

Midfielder: Kenza Dali (San Diego Wave FC)

Dali could be on watch for an end-of-year award following her influential contributions this week. She led her team with 80 touches and scored the opening goal just 17 minutes into the match, setting the tone for the Wave.

Midfielder: Briana Pinto (North Carolina Courage)

Impact players don’t necessarily need to play the full match to shine; Pinto proved that with a game-winning contribution off the bench, displaying her clutch scoring ability.

Forward: Ludmilla (Chicago Stars FC)

Ludmilla showcased her talent with two early goals for Chicago, emphasizing her ability to create excitement and energy for the struggling Stars.

Forward: Esther Gonzalez (Gotham FC)

Leading the Golden Boot race, Gonzalez scored again this week. With a total of nine goals, she’s back on track following a previous drought and crucial to her team’s revival from a three-game losing streak.

Forward: Barbra Banda (Orlando Pride)

Banda remains a significant contender for the Golden Boot, securing eight goals this season after scoring the game-winner in week 12.

Coach: Vlatko Andonovski (Kansas City Current)

After a long absence from our Best XI, Andonovski has made a triumphant return as his team leads the league, showcasing a strong performance from all facets of the squad.

Captain: NWSL Supporters Groups

With the league’s theme nights underway, supporters groups are incredible in ensuring representation and celebration of Pride Month through various activities.

“Everyone deserves to play. To live.” — Rose City Riveters at Providence Park.

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