After a short break for international matches, the National Women`s Soccer League (NWSL) resumed its regular season with week four action. This also means the return of the Team of the Week selection by Attacking Third. Throughout the 2025 season, Attacking Third will be choosing their top eleven players, highlighting the best performances from the weekend`s games.
Each week, Attacking Third analysts will also select a head coach for the Team of the Week recognition. This honor can go to anyone, including players and coaches from teams that performed strongly even in games that didn`t end in victories.
It`s still early in the long season, but week four showcased some significant individual performances following the international window. Keep an eye on players readjusting after their national team duties.
Here is the Best XI for week four:
Forwards
Alyssa Thompson (Angel City FC): The winger delivered an outstanding performance for Angel City after a successful period with the USWNT. 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): After representing Spain and scoring in the UEFA Women`s Nations League, Esther scored twice in Gotham FC`s 3-1 victory over North Carolina. This is her first time scoring for the club after four weeks, and her defensive work rate didn`t diminish her attacking contributions.
Ludmila (Chicago Stars FC): The Brazilian international was pivotal, scoring two goals for the struggling Stars. The club has faced difficulties in scoring this season, and Ludmila`s two goals led the Stars to their first win of the year.
Midfielders
Leicy Santos (Washington Spirit): The attacking midfielder scored a fantastic free-kick, securing an important insurance goal for the Spirit and a road win against Louisville. She has consistently been a key attacking player for the Spirit, alongside Ashley Hatch.
Hina Sugita (Portland Thorns FC): Whether it`s winning possession or creating opportunities for teammates, Sugita has been crucial in the Thorns` midfield as they develop their game early in the season. Sugita is a vital link, capable of dictating the tempo of matches.
Debinha (Kansas City Current): Debinha`s fourth consecutive appearance in the Team of the Week highlights her early MVP form. 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 place in the Golden Boot race with her teammate Temwa Chawinga.
Defenders
Lilly Reale (Gotham FC): The rookie defender had another impressive game, scoring her first professional goal this weekend. She was frequently involved in attacking plays and showed excellent awareness in her passing to forwards. She topped the team in attempted crosses (5) and ball recoveries (8) during Gotham FC`s first win of the season.
Emily Sams (Orlando Pride): Sams has been one of the most consistent defenders in the league this season, proving it again this weekend after limited national team minutes. She immediately contributed to shutting down opposition attacks and led her team with 9 ball recoveries as Orlando secured their fourth consecutive victory.
Sam Staab (Chicago Stars FC): Staab`s comeback from last year`s Achilles injury continues to be impressive, and her contributions were key to Chicago`s first win of the year. Chicago`s defense is stronger with her presence, and her long passing adds another dimension to the Stars` offense.
Trinity Armstrong (San Diego FC): Another standout rookie from week four, Armstrong made the most of her first start for San Diego. The 17-year-old had the second-highest tackle success rate on the team (66.7%) and made 3 clearances in her 76 minutes against Kansas City Current.
Goalkeeper
Bella Bixby (Portland Thorns FC): Bixby made a significant comeback, earning a shutout against Utah. She returned to the goal for the first time since giving birth to her daughter last July, facing numerous crosses, shots, and corners. Her strong performance could lead to more playing time.
Coach
Sam Laity (Angel City FC): A long-time NWSL coach, often in supporting roles, Laity is now the interim manager for Angel City as they seek a permanent head coach. Laity`s approach of giving opportunities to younger players is proving effective, with these players gaining more starts and responsibilities early in the season. This strategy is working and should be continued, especially as it`s leading to victories.
