
As the NWSL regular season reaches its midway point, this week delivered exciting matches before a lengthy summer break. All 14 teams had a crucial week to fight for points ahead of the five-week pause for international tournaments. The analysts from Attacking Third selected standout performances for the Team of the Week.
Goalkeeper: Lorena (Kansas City Current)
Leading the league with six clean sheets, Lorena has quickly become one of the standout signings for her club, showcasing skill with a crucial penalty save that secured all three points.
“LORENA SAYS NOPE ❌”
The current keeper comes up CLUTCH to keep Angel City off the board. 🎥 NWSL
Defenders: Kayla Sharples (Kansas City Current), Alyssa Malonson (Bay FC), Tara McKeown (Washington Spirit), Arin Wright (Racing Louisville FC)
These defenders played instrumental roles in their teams, with Sharples being pivotal in Kansas City’s defensive line and Wright excelling in multiple aspects of her game, including her set-piece skills.
Midfielders: Sam Coffey (Portland Thorns FC), Taylor Flint (Racing Louisville FC), Ji So-yun (Seattle Reign FC)
Coffey again demonstrated leadership on the field, while Flint thrived as a defensive midfielder, and Ji brought flair and experience to Seattle’s midfield, scoring a stunning goal.
Forwards: Emeri Adames (Seattle Reign), Manaka Matsukubo (North Carolina Courage), Bia Zanerrato (Kansas City Current)
Adames scored twice in a match showcasing her potential as one of the youngest players in the league, while Zanerrato proved crucial with a vital game-winning goal.
Coach: Bev Yanez (Racing Louisville FC)
Under Yanez’s guidance, Racing Louisville has achieved a significant upturn in form, winning five out of their last seven games.
Honorary Captain: Adrian Gonzalez (Washington Spirit)
Gonzalez steps into the head coach role after a challenging transition period, demonstrating the team’s resilience and competitiveness despite changes in leadership.