Following the international break, the NWSL season resumed with week four action, 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 head coach for team of the week honors. These accolades can go to players and coaches from any team, even those who performed well in games that didn`t result in wins.
The season is still young, but week four showcased significant individual performances after the international window. Fans should watch for players regaining momentum after national team duties. For those interested in previous selections, you can review the NWSL team for week three.
NWSL regular season matches are available on CBS platforms, including CBS, CBS Sports Network, Paramount+, and CBS Sports Golazo Network.
Here is our Best XI for week four:
Forwards
Alyssa Thompson (Angel City FC): The winger delivered a standout performance for Angel City after her time with the U.S. women`s national team. She scored a goal and provided an assist against Houston, securing three important points. Thompson is undoubtedly Angel City`s most valuable player and a contender for league-wide honors.
Esther Gonzalez (Gotham FC): Fresh off scoring for Spain in the UEFA Women`s Nations League, Gonzalez netted two goals in Gotham`s 3-1 victory over North Carolina. This marks her first goals for the club after four weeks, with her strong defensive pressing complementing her offensive contributions.
Ludmila (Chicago Stars FC): The Brazilian international made a decisive impact, scoring twice for the struggling Stars. Ludmila`s two goals secured the Stars` first win of the season, addressing their previous struggles in front of goal.
Midfielders
Leicy Santos (Washington Spirit): The attacking midfielder scored a beautiful free-kick, providing the Spirit with a crucial insurance goal and a road win against Louisville. She and Ashley Hatch have been consistent attacking threats for the Spirit as other offensive players return from injury.
Hina Sugita (Portland Thorns FC): Sugita`s ability to win possession and connect with teammates has been vital for the Thorns midfield as they develop their strategy early in the season. While Reilyn Turner has emerged as a leading scorer, Sugita provides crucial tempo control and link-up play.
Debinha (Kansas City Current): Debinha earns 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 teammate Temwa Chawinga.
Defenders
Lilly Reale (Gotham FC): The rookie defender continued her strong start, scoring her first professional goal this weekend. She was frequently involved in attacking plays and demonstrated excellent passing to connect with forwards. She led Gotham in attempted crosses (5) and recoveries (8) during their first win of the season.
Emily Sams (Orlando Pride): Sams has been one of the most consistent defenders in the league this season, reaffirming her form after not playing minutes with the national team. She was immediately impactful in disrupting attacks and led Orlando with 9 recoveries as they secured their fourth consecutive victory.
Sam Staab (Chicago Stars FC): Staab`s impressive return from an Achilles injury last year continues, and her contributions were key to Chicago`s first win. Chicago`s defense is significantly stronger with her presence, and her long passing provides an added dimension to the Stars` offense.
Trinity Armstrong (San Diego FC): Another standout rookie from week four, Armstrong impressed in her first start for San Diego. The 17-year-old ranked second on the team in tackle success (66.7%) and clearances (3) in her 76 minutes against Kansas City Current.
Goalkeeper
Bella Bixby (Portland Thorns FC): Bixby marked a significant comeback with a shutout against Utah. Returning to the goal for the first time since her daughter`s birth last July, she faced 12 crosses, nine shots, and three corners. Her strong performance could lead to more playing time.
Coach
Sam Laity (Angel City FC): A seasoned NWSL coach, Laity has often served in supporting roles, except for a year as head coach in Houston. Now interim manager for Angel City, Laity`s strategy of giving younger players opportunities is proving effective. This approach is yielding wins and should be continued, particularly given the positive results.
Dominic Ashworth