As the 2025 NWSL regular season passes the quarter mark, it`s time for the Attacking Third`s Team of the Week. Analysts review performances from the past weekend`s matches to pick the best XI players and a top coach. This Week 8 list includes some familiar faces and several newcomers who delivered outstanding displays.
Here is the selection for the best XI:
Goalkeeper: Abby Smith (Houston Dash)
Houston Dash goalkeeper Abby Smith, a veteran, earned her first start of the season against Seattle, replacing long-time captain Jane Campbell. Coach Fabrice Gautrat highlighted Smith`s performance in training as the reason for the change. Smith proved decisive, making a crucial late save that helped Houston maintain their one-goal lead and secure a shutout win. This was Smith`s first start since August 2023.
Defender: Perle Morroni (San Diego Wave FC)
San Diego Wave FC`s French international defender, Perle Morroni, was highly active in their match against the Portland Thorns. Playing high on the field, she was instrumental in creating attacking opportunities, combining effectively with midfielders Savannah McCaskill and Kenza Dali. Morroni also provided the assist for San Diego`s only goal.
Defender: Sam Staab (Chicago Stars FC)
Sam Staab of Chicago Stars FC earns her spot despite the team`s ongoing struggles. The experienced defender has been vital in keeping matches competitive for Chicago this season. In Week 8, Staab showcased her offensive capabilities, leading the team with 71 touches and scoring a goal against her former club. As analyst Darian Jenkins noted, Staab`s performance earned her recognition on the list, highlighting her contribution to the build-up and timely finish.
Defender: Tara McKeown (Washington Spirit)
Washington Spirit`s Tara McKeown continues the trend of defenders making an offensive impact this week. As a former forward, McKeown is comfortable joining the attack, and her strong connective play was evident in the match against Chicago.
Defender: Hailie Mace (Kansas City Current)
Another outside back making waves offensively is Hailie Mace of Kansas City Current. In Week 8, Mace was vital to her team`s attack, delivering two assists. Her consistent defensive coverage and effective combination play are making her an indispensable part of the lineup, despite coaching staff having other options.
Midfielder: Taylor Flint (Racing Louisville FC)
Racing Louisville FC is finding form, and midfielder Taylor Flint has been crucial to their progress in the middle third. Flint scored the decisive and only goal of the match with a stunning strike and also led the team with 9 aerial challenges won.
Midfielder: Denise O`Sullivan (North Carolina Courage)
North Carolina Courage midfielder Denise O`Sullivan makes another appearance on the Best XI, remaining a consistently reliable player. The Irish international was a key figure as the team made tactical adjustments against a challenging Orlando Pride side, demonstrating her ability to execute any assigned role effectively.
Midfielder: Debinha (Kansas City Current)
Kansas City Current`s Brazilian star, Debinha, returns to the Best XI after a brilliant performance against Bay FC. She continues to build a strong case for MVP honors, seemingly gaining momentum as the season progresses past the quarter mark. Debinha`s clinical finishing, both from open play and set pieces, has been a highlight through Week 8.
Forward: Rosemonde Kouassi (Washington Spirit)
Washington Spirit forward Rosemonde Kouassi is returning to form as the team manages injuries. The Ivorian international, acquired mid-season last year, delivered a standout performance against Chicago. She contributed a goal and an assist and created the pressure that led to an own goal, adding valuable attacking threat.
Forward: Temwa Chawinga (Kansas City Current)
Kansas City Current`s Temwa Chawinga is back on the scoresheet and the Best XI, ending a four-game goalless run. Her goal helped secure the Current`s decisive win against Bay FC. Despite having managed a hip injury, the reigning Golden Boot winner showed no signs of being slowed down in Week 8.
Forward: Christen Press (Angel City FC)
Veteran forward Christen Press of Angel City FC demonstrated the importance of experienced players. Coming on as a second-half substitute for her most minutes this season, she immediately impacted the game within just 20 seconds. Her presence also provided composure for the young squad during a challenging match.
Coach: Bev Yanez (Racing Louisville FC)
Racing Louisville FC Head Coach Bev Yanez earned Coach of the Week honors for guiding her team through not one, but two lengthy lightning delays during their road game in Houston. Yanez kept her players focused and composed, leading them to a win. This victory marks two consecutive positive results for a team that faced difficulties earlier in the season.
Dominic Ashworth