The 2025 NWSL regular season is approaching its midpoint, and Week 12 brought significant action as teams competed for points before the upcoming summer break. Across the league, from leading contenders to teams lower in the standings, standout individual efforts were crucial. This is the focus of Attacking Third`s Team of the Week.
Following each week`s matches in the 2025 NWSL season, Attacking Third analysts pick a Best XI and a coach based on exceptional weekend performances. Some players, like those from Orlando, Kansas City, and San Diego, are frequent selections, while others on this week`s list represent teams less often highlighted. Here is the Week 12 Best XI:
Goalkeeper: Anna Moorehouse (Orlando Pride)
The goalkeeper appears even stronger than last season, when she helped the Pride win the Shield and Championship. Anna Moorehouse has been vital to Orlando`s successful run, especially in tight games. Her confidence in goal helps her teammates stay calm. She leads all NWSL keepers in save percentage (82.2%) and is tied for the most clean sheets (five).
Defender: Reyna Reyes (Portland Thorns FC)
The Mexican international applied strong pressure, making it tough for Washington Spirit. Reyna Reyes had the most touches for Portland (64) and was a key option for midfielders while pressing the Spirit. Covering ground, winning duels, and taking aerial challenges, Reyes was impactful everywhere.
Defender: Kayla Sharples (Kansas City Current)
For another week, a Kansas City Current defender makes the list. Kayla Sharples earns her spot again for helping the Current withstand late pressure. A dominant figure in defense, her proactive approach to stopping attacks is evident. She led the team with eight clearances this week, contributing to Kansas City`s strong form.
Defender: Emily Sams (Orlando Pride)
The reigning Defender of the Year is having another excellent season. Emily Sams is recognized again for her determined defending and ability to neutralize speed. She led Orlando in touches (91), comfortable building play from the back, and was equally effective stopping attacks, leading the team with five tackles.
Defender: Cori Dyke (Orlando Pride)
After scoring the winner last week, Cori Dyke delivered another solid performance in Week 12. While not scoring this time, her impact was significant on the right flank, making it hard for opposing attackers to get through. She led the team with 10 clearances, helping Orlando secure a shutout.
Midfielder: Sam Coffey (Portland Thorns FC)
As the 2025 season approaches its midpoint, the Midfielder of the Year race is open, but Sam Coffey is a definite contender. She frequently dictated play for Portland, winning possession and directing passes. Her consistent, impactful performances make the 2025 Thorns team feel like Sam Coffey`s team.
Midfielder: Kenza Dali (San Diego Wave FC)
If considering potential end-of-year awards, Kenza Dali is currently a strong candidate. The France international was impactful across the pitch for San Diego this week. She led the team with 80 touches and scored the opening goal in the 17th minute, setting the match`s rhythm. “This Wave side is so effective, and she is central to everything they do offensively,” noted an analyst. “Whenever they push forward, her creativity is the source.”
Midfielder: Briana Pinto (North Carolina Courage)
Sometimes a player`s impact is so significant it doesn`t require a full 90 minutes. This week, Briana Pinto of the North Carolina Courage earns this recognition for her game-winning contribution off the bench. Coming on late, with just three touches, she scored the winning goal right at the end, keeping the Courage close to the playoff spots.
Forward: Ludmilla (Chicago Stars FC)
The Brazilian international had a major impact for the Chicago Stars, scoring two early goals. While the team couldn`t hold the lead, she was undoubtedly responsible for bringing her signature backflip celebrations back to the NWSL highlight reel this season.
Forward: Esther Gonzalez (Gotham FC)
The Spain international has retaken the lead in the 2025 NWSL Golden Boot race. Her performance in Week 12 brought her league-leading tally to nine goals. She ended a personal scoring drought and Gotham`s three-game losing streak with her fourth brace (two-goal game) of the season.
Forward: Barbra Banda (Orlando Pride)
Remaining a strong contender for the Golden Boot is Barbra Banda, now with eight goals after her Week 12 game-winner. Regardless of the game situation or minute, Banda`s presence on the field poses a constant threat to change the outcome.
Coach: Vlatko Andonovski (Kansas City Current)
Andonovski returns to our weekly Best XI, his first appearance since Week 3, which feels overdue given the team`s success. As they reach the season`s midpoint, Kansas City is the league`s top side, featuring dangerous players in every area, from goalkeeper Lorena to forward Temwa Chawinga. Maintaining the No. 1 position is challenging, and the coaching staff`s management will be key to their future performance.
Captain: NWSL Supporters Groups
While the league and clubs organize theme nights, NWSL supporters groups are ensuring these moments celebrate important causes. Particularly during times when overt celebration of Pride Month may be less visible from official channels, supporters groups have stepped up. Amidst national discussions and statements from NWSL clubs acknowledging immigrant communities, supporters groups` actions during games have been crucial in visibly recognizing and supporting marginalized groups.
Dominic Ashworth