Following the international break, the NWSL season resumed with week four, bringing back Attacking Third`s Team of the Week. Throughout the 2025 season, Attacking Third will highlight the top eleven players based on their weekend performances.
Each week, Attacking Third analysts will also select a Coach of the Week. These honors can go to players and coaches from teams that played exceptionally well, even if they didn`t win.
It`s still early in the season, but week four showcased outstanding individual performances after the international window. For those tracking, you can check out the NWSL Team of the Week for week three.
Fans can watch select NWSL regular season games on CBS platforms including CBS, CBS Sports Network, Paramount+, and CBS Sports Golazo Network.
Here is the Best XI for week four:
Forwards
Alyssa Thompson (Angel City FC): Thompson delivered an incredible performance for Angel City after returning from the U.S. national team. She scored a goal and provided an assist against Houston, securing three vital points. Thompson is arguably Angel City’s most valuable player and a contender for league MVP.
Esther Gonzalez (Gotham FC): Fresh from scoring for Spain in the UEFA Women’s Nations League, Gonzalez scored twice in Gotham FC`s 3-1 victory over North Carolina. These were her first goals for the club after four weeks, and her strong defensive work rate didn`t diminish her attacking impact.
Ludmila (Chicago Stars FC): The Brazilian international scored two goals for the struggling Stars, igniting celebrations. Ludmila`s goals gave the Stars their first win of the season, resolving their early-season scoring issues.
Midfielders
Leicy Santos (Washington Spirit): Santos scored a fantastic free-kick, securing a win against Louisville on the road for the Spirit. She and Ashley Hatch have been consistent attacking threats for the Spirit, as other offensive players return from injuries.
Hina Sugita (Portland Thorns FC): Sugita has been crucial in Portland`s midfield, both in winning possession and creating opportunities for teammates. While Reilyn Turner is emerging as a leading scorer, Sugita provides essential tempo and connection in midfield.
Debinha (Kansas City Current): Debinha earned her fourth consecutive Team of the Week selection, reinforcing her early MVP candidacy. She leads the league in chances created (15) and scored her third goal of the season in Kansas City`s fourth straight win. She is currently tied for second in the Golden Boot race with her teammate Temwa Chawinga.
Defenders
Lilly Reale (Gotham FC): The rookie defender continued her strong start, scoring her first professional goal this weekend. She was actively involved in attacking plays and made smart passes to forwards. Reale led the team in crosses (5) and recoveries (8) during Gotham`s first win of the season.
Emily Sams (Orlando Pride): Sams has been one of the most consistent defenders in the league this season, proving it again this weekend after limited national team minutes. She was central to shutting down attacks and led the team with 9 recoveries as Orlando secured their fourth consecutive victory.
Sam Staab (Chicago Stars FC): Staab`s comeback from last year`s Achilles injury continues to impress, and her contributions were key to Chicago`s first win. Her presence strengthens Chicago’s defense, and her long passes add a new dimension to their offense.
Trinity Armstrong (San Diego FC): Another standout rookie from week four, Armstrong excelled in her first start for San Diego. The 17-year-old had the second-best tackle success rate (66.7%) and made 3 clearances in 76 minutes against Kansas City Current.
Goalkeeper
Bella Bixby (Portland Thorns FC): Bixby made a remarkable return with a shutout against Utah. Playing her first game since her daughter`s birth in July, she faced 12 crosses, 9 shots, and 3 corners. After this strong performance, the former starter could see more playing time.
Coach
Sam Laity (Angel City FC): A long-time NWSL coach, Laity is now interim manager for Angel City. His strategy of giving younger players more opportunities is proving successful early in the season and leading to wins. He should continue with this approach.
Benedict Kingsley