After a global sojourn that saw stars from the National Women’s Soccer League grace pitches across Europe, Africa, and South America for their respective international tournaments, the 2025 NWSL season has roared back to life. Week 14 marked the official commencement of the second half, and if the opening act was any indication, fans are in for a relentless, exhilarating ride to the NWSL Shield.
The anticipation built during the month-long international hiatus was not merely met but arguably surpassed. From tightly contested battles to moments of individual brilliance, the league wasted no time in reminding everyone why it commands such fervent attention. Naturally, with such a spectacle, the task of singling out the top performers becomes less a chore and more a necessary recognition of sheer excellence.
The Unveiling of Week 14`s Elite: Attacking Third`s Selections
The weekly tradition of naming the “Team of the Week” by Attacking Third analysts serves as a snapshot of the league’s most impactful contributions. Comprising a Best XI, a Head Coach, and an Honorary Captain, these selections highlight those who truly bent Week 14 to their will. Given the depth of talent within the NWSL, one can only marvel at the “simple” task of sifting through over 300 rostered athletes to find the select few who shone brightest.
Goalkeeper
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Goalkeeper: Mia Justus (Utah Royals)
A rookie making her regular season debut against reigning champions is hardly a gentle introduction. Yet, Mia Justus met the challenge head-on for the Utah Royals. Her five crucial saves salvaged a point from what could have been a far more difficult afternoon, stamping her authority early in her professional career. While others had strong showings, Justus clearly earned her bragging rights for the week.
Defenders
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Defender: Esme Morgan (Washington Spirit)
Fresh off winning the 2025 UEFA Women`s Euro with England, Esme Morgan didn`t merely return to the Washington Spirit; she reintegrated seamlessly, playing with the poise of a true champion. Her adaptable presence in the Spirit`s fluid defensive setup was a calming influence, especially when the opposition pressed high. She truly looked as calm on the ball as one might expect from a continental victor.
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Defender: Phoebe McClernon (Seattle Reign FC)
The Seattle Reign`s impressive clean sheet was built on a foundation anchored by Phoebe McClernon. Her vocal leadership and unwavering confidence at center-back were instrumental in repelling waves of attack. Leading her team in clearances and recoveries, McClernon proved that sometimes, the most decisive contributions happen without ever touching the scoreboard.
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Defender: Kristen McNabb (San Diego Wave FC)
San Diego Wave`s defensive solidity continues to be a hallmark, even as their goal-scoring machine reboots. Veteran Kristen McNabb has been a quiet, yet utterly reliable, presence in their backline. Often tasked with the `unseen` work, her ability to step in and out of roles, keeping the defense settled in gritty, scoreless stalemates, underscores her immense value.
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Defender: Tyler Lussi (North Carolina Courage)
If San Diego held their ground, North Carolina met the challenge equally. Tyler Lussi, typically known for her attacking forays, showcased her versatile defensive capabilities in a deeper lying fullback role. Her quick recoveries and ability to transition from defense to attack were a stark reminder of her multi-faceted skill set. Could this tactical adjustment be the spark for a second-half surge? Time will tell.
Midfielders
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Midfielder: Mina Tanaka (Utah Royals)
Japan`s Mina Tanaka announced her return with a statement goal that bordered on the audacious. A mere five minutes into her match against Orlando Pride, she unleashed a thunderous strike from approximately 30 yards out, serving as an early warning that the Royals might just be the spoiler team everyone needs to watch in the season`s latter half.
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Midfielder: Croix Bethune (Washington Spirit)
Former Rookie and Midfielder of the Year, Croix Bethune, appears to be fully back in stride. Her return, just prior to the international break, has now culminated in a display of her creative genius. Her deft flick set up arguably the most talked-about goal of the week, signaling that she`s ready to orchestrate the Spirit`s attacking symphony once more.
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Midfielder: Jess Fishlock (Seattle Reign FC)
The “sweet summer vibes” of a historic Euro debut for Wales clearly followed Jess Fishlock back to the NWSL. Her influential presence for Seattle Reign was undeniable; scoring the equalizer and forcing an own goal to secure a win speaks volumes about her enduring impact and ability to turn the tide of a match.
Forwards
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Forward: Penelope Hocking (Bay FC)
While the NWSL may not have a “Most Improved Player” award, Penelope Hocking`s season for Bay FC makes a compelling case. As the team`s leading scorer with five goals, her recent top-tier finish against Houston Dash was not just team-of-the-week worthy, but also solidified her quiet, yet undeniable, MVP-caliber campaign.
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Forward: Temwa Chawinga (Kansas City Current)
For Kansas City Current, Temwa Chawinga has become less a player and more an “automatic goal” button. Her ninth goal of the season puts her hot on the heels of the Golden Boot leader. With such consistent, dazzling goal-scoring prowess, it`s clear Chawinga will be a formidable contender for individual honors as the season progresses.
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Forward: Trinity Rodman (Washington Spirit)
Among a weekend filled with significant returns, none resonated quite like Trinity Rodman`s. After a nearly four-month absence, her re-entry into the Washington Spirit match with just 14 minutes remaining felt like a script straight from a sports drama. Not only did she provide an immediate spark, but she capped her triumphant comeback with the game-winning goal. The sheer emotion of the team`s celebration, coupled with Rodman`s heartfelt comments about her diligent, solitary rehab for a back injury, underscored the true significance of her return. It was more than three points; it was a testament to perseverance.
Leadership
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Coach: Adrian Gonzalez (Washington Spirit)
Adrian Gonzalez`s tenure as Washington Spirit`s head coach has been a study in resilience and adaptation. Having taken the reins for the third time this season, his ability to rally the team, especially with key players like Rodman returning, is commendable. His guidance has clearly brought the band back together, clicking at just the right time for a strong second-half push.
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Honorary Captain: Rachel Kundananji (Bay FC)
Zambia international Rachel Kundananji, despite only one goal this season, continues to be a force of “chaos” in the front line for Bay FC. Her assist on Hocking`s goal marked her third of the season, showcasing her consistent impact beyond just scoring. Her relentless effort, coupled with a genuine joy for the game – even after hitting the post twice and then performing a forward roll – makes her an inspiring figure and a truly deserving honorary captain. She embodies the spirit of loving the game, regardless of the scoreboard`s immediate gratification.
Week 14 has set a thrilling precedent for the remainder of the NWSL season. With international stars back in full swing and domestic talent continuing to shine, the race for the NWSL Shield promises to be fiercely contested. The league`s narrative is richer, the stakes are higher, and the performances, as evidenced by this elite lineup, are nothing short of captivating. Fans should prepare for more unforgettable moments as the journey towards the championship intensifies.