With the 2025 NWSL regular season now past the quarter mark, the Attacking Third analysis team is back to unveil their selections for the Team of the Week. Following weekly matches throughout the campaign, analysts choose a Best XI lineup and a coach based on notable performances during the weekend`s games.
Eight weeks into the season, some familiar faces have returned to our Team of the Week, while others have earned their spot for the first time this year.
Goalkeeper
Abby Smith (Houston Dash)
The experienced goalkeeper was strategically deployed in a road match against Seattle. Smith joined Houston as a free agent before the season, and head coach Fabrice Gautrat confirmed the decision to start Smith over long-time captain Jane Campbell was a tactical choice, citing Smith`s strong training performances. As the team progresses past the season`s quarter mark, this evaluation will continue weekly.
Smith made a crucial late save to preserve Houston`s one-goal advantage in her first start of the regular season, and her first since August 2023. She and the Dash defense successfully kept Seattle off the scoreboard.
Defender
Perle Morroni (San Diego Wave FC)
The French international covered significant ground against the Portland Thorns, frequently pushing high up the field and actively participating in offensive build-up. The outside back was vital in creating attacking opportunities, linking up with midfielders Savannah McCaskill and Kenza Dali, and provided the assist for San Diego`s only goal.
Defender
Sam Staab (Chicago Stars FC)
Although Chicago continues to face challenges in securing results, Sam Staab`s effort has been consistent. The seasoned defender has been a key factor in helping Chicago remain competitive in matches this season, and in week eight, she demonstrated her attacking capabilities. She led her team in total touches (71) and found the back of the net against her former club.
Attacking Third analysts highlighted her return from injury, noting she possesses more than just a powerful long throw and left foot – she can finish chances too. They described how she initiated the play, moved into midfield, passed the ball forward, and then made a long run up the field to be in the right position to score Chicago`s goal, acknowledging her well-deserved inclusion despite the team`s overall results.
Defender
Tara McKeown (Washington Spirit)
A recurring theme for this week`s Best XI defenders is their impact on the offensive end. McKeown, a former forward, is familiar with attacking link-up play, and this was evident in the road match against Chicago. She contributed significantly to the Spirit`s attack.
Defender
Hailie Mace (Kansas City Current)
Yet another outside back who played a crucial role in her team`s attack this week. Hailie Mace was essential for Kansas City in week eight, providing not one, but two assists for the Current. While the coaching staff has options in the backline, Mace`s consistent defensive coverage and effective combination play are making it difficult to rotate her out of the starting lineup.
Midfielder
Taylor Flint (Racing Louisville FC)
Louisville is finally finding their rhythm, and Taylor Flint in the midfield has been a significant part of this success. The central midfielder scored a spectacular game-winning goal, which was the only tally of the match, and also led her team in aerial challenges (9).
Midfielder
Denise O`Sullivan (North Carolina Courage)
The Irish international makes another appearance on our Best XI, remaining a consistent force for the Courage after week eight. She provided a crucial reliable presence as the team made tactical adjustments to face a tough opponent in Orlando Pride, demonstrating her ability to execute any assigned role effectively.
Midfielder
Debinha (Kansas City Current)
The Brazilian international is back on our Best XI after a stellar performance against Bay FC. She continues to strengthen her case for MVP consideration week after week. As teams begin to settle in past the quarter mark, Debinha appears to be just hitting her stride. Whether scoring from open play or from dead ball situations, she has been clinical through week eight.
Forward
Rosemonde Kouassi (Washington Spirit)
With the Spirit dealing with roster injuries, several players are working their way back, and Rosemonde Kouassi`s return is particularly significant. A midseason acquisition last season, she has regained her form and delivered a breakout performance against Chicago, contributing a goal, an assist, and creating enough disruption to force an own goal.
Forward
Temwa Chawinga (Kansas City Current)
After a four-game scoring drought, Chawinga is back on the scoreboard and our Best XI. Her goal sealed the Current`s dominant victory against Bay FC. The coaching staff has managed her minutes cautiously due to a persistent hip injury, but the reigning Golden Boot winner showed no signs of slowing down in week eight.
Forward
Christen Press (Angel City FC)
While the Angel City coaching staff focuses on developing young talent and playing exciting football, the veteran forward reminded everyone of the importance of experience in high-pressure games. Substituted into the second half, poised for her most minutes this season, she needed just 20 seconds to dramatically impact the game`s trajectory. The young squad also relied on her leadership presence as they navigated the emotional challenge of a medical emergency involving Savy King.
Coach
Bev Yanez (Racing Louisville FC)
Coaching through not one, but two lightning delays? Racing Louisville FC coach Bev Yanez certainly earned coach of the week honors. She managed to keep her team focused and composed on the road in Houston, enduring one delay that extended close to two hours. The victory secured two consecutive positive results for a side that struggled through the initial quarter of the regular season.
Adrian Whitmore