The NWSL season is back following a brief pause for the international break, and the action in Week 11 proved worth the wait. Matches featured dramatic winning goals scored late in the game, players reaching significant career milestones, and top teams reaffirming their elite status. Amidst all the excitement, numerous players delivered exceptional performances, leading to the return of Attacking Third`s Team of the Week.
Each week throughout the 2025 NWSL campaign, Attacking Third analysts select a best XI players and a coach based on their standout contributions over the weekend. As the season approaches its halfway point, it`s unsurprising to see consistent appearances from players on leading clubs; they occupy the upper half of the table for a reason.
However, this selection isn`t exclusively for players from top teams. Players from lower-ranked sides are also represented, including individuals from Angel City following their thrilling 2-2 draw against Chicago Stars FC. The Team of the Week also features several debutants, including the selected coach.
There is plenty of anticipation for Week 12 and the exciting matches it will bring.
Goalkeeper
Claudia Dickey (Seattle Reign FC)
The goalkeeper impressed in Week 11. She leads American goalkeepers across key statistical categories through 10 games, including save percentage (74.4%), goals against (10), crosses faced (198), and crosses claimed (12). As the saying goes, `the data doesn`t lie,` and Dickey delivered a critical save against a formidable San Diego opponent.
Defenders
Rebeca Bernal (Washington Spirit)
The Mexican international displayed her immense value and versatility for the Washington Spirit, contributing effectively across different lines. Rebeca Bernal seamlessly transitioned between defensive midfield and center back roles as needed. This week, Bernal was outstanding at the back, shutting down opposing attackers. Her teammate, Esme Morgan, highlighted Bernal`s consistent energy wherever she plays.
“She`s such a strong defender. She loves going and winning aerial balls from long goal kicks, you kinda see the ball coming into the air and you know Rebe is going to come flying through to win it,” Morgan shared. “She loves flinging herself in front of the ball for blocks and making strong tackles. I feel like she`s a really secure presence there.”
Ellie Jean (Racing Louisville FC)
Racing Louisville took another step closer to their playoff aspiration, a goal achievable with reliable veterans like Ellie Jean in the squad. The experienced centerback was vital both defensively, helping neutralize attacks, and offensively, contributing a crucial goal.
Casey Krueger (Washington Spirit)
This marks Casey Krueger`s third consecutive appearance on the Team of the Week, a testament to her consistent high performance. Whether the veteran defender is aggressively tracking down opposition transitions, finding the back of the net, or providing assists, her earned recognition is undeniable.
M.A. Vignola (Angel City FC)
A formidable presence on Angel City`s backline, M.A. Vignola combines intelligent defending with insightful attacking contributions. This was clearly demonstrated during Week 11, particularly when she regained possession and subsequently scored the equalizer for her team.
Midfielders
Narumi Miura (Washington Spirit)
Narumi Miura returns to the Best XI this week with significant impact. The Japanese international led her midfield in total touches (59) and created the most chances for the team (three), also registering an assist on Gift Monday`s goal. Despite the Washington Spirit managing numerous injuries and rotating players in the middle third, Miura has provided a constant, reliable presence.
Sally Menti (Seattle Reign FC)
Sally Menti scored her first NWSL goal in a highly impactful manner, earning her spot on this week`s team. She was a brilliant addition to the midfield, particularly during a tough away match against a strong opponent. Ranking second on her team in recoveries (seven), her effectiveness was also defined by her actions once she won the ball back.
Vanessa DiBernardo (Kansas City Current)
While some attention might have focused on the late own goal, overlooking Vanessa DiBernardo`s contributions over the previous 100 minutes would unfortunately echo the lack of individual recognition she has sometimes received throughout her career. Not this week; she is deservedly in our Best XI for her immense hard work on and off the ball, contributions that often don`t appear on the scoresheet. Furthermore, this match saw her become the fifth player in NWSL history to reach 200 regular-season appearances.
Forwards
Gift Monday (Washington Spirit)
The Nigerian international netted her fourth goal of the season in a game that felt incredibly dynamic and end-to-end at times. Gift Monday has been a major positive for the Spirit as they navigate rotating players amidst a challenging injury situation. Her movement within the penalty box was particularly impressive, as was her skillfully directed diving header for the goal.
Temwa Chawinga (Kansas City Current)
The reigning NWSL Golden Boot winner is quickly getting back into contention for this year`s race. Temwa Chawinga`s game-winning goal came just 11 minutes into a rain-affected match against Gotham FC. Chawinga is a true master of timing and movement; if she gets even slightly ahead of the defensive line, she is often unstoppable.
Michelle Cooper (Kansas City Current)
Fresh off her time with the U.S. Women`s National Team camp, Michelle Cooper returned demonstrating her dangerous form. Kansas City`s pressing strategy is highly effective and clinical, and the young forward showed no hesitation in scoring the opening goal just three minutes into the match.
Coach
Laura Harvey (Seattle Reign FC)
Laura Harvey led her team to victory with a tactical masterclass against San Diego. In doing so, she became the first coach in NWSL history to reach the impressive milestone of 250 matches at the helm. She holds the distinction of being the only coach in the league`s history to surpass 200 games managed, and her achievements continue to grow.
Captain`s Pick
Savy King (Angel City FC)
Defender Savy King made a significant return to BMO Stadium after successfully undergoing emergency heart surgery. Her presence at the game served as a powerful reminder that some things transcend soccer, and the league community is undoubtedly stronger and better with her healthy return.
Dominic Ashworth