The 2025 NWSL regular season resumed after a month-long international break that allowed players to compete in significant tournaments such as the UEFA Women’s Euro, the women’s African Cup of Nations, and Copa America Femenina. As Week 14 kicked off, teams like Kansas City continued their pursuit of the NWSL Shield, delivering exciting matches with memorable goals to relish.
With the second half of the season officially here, analysts will assess performances from the past week to assemble a best XI, including the coach and an honorary captain based on standout contributions. As anticipation builds for the return of regular-season matches, fans can tune into games aired across CBS platforms, including CBS, CBS Sports Network, Paramount+, and CBS Sports Golazo Network.
Let’s highlight the top performers that shaped the NWSL’s thrilling comeback. Here’s our best XI:
Goalkeeper: Mia Justus (Utah Royals)
Rookie Mia Justus made headlines with her call-up to the US women’s national team and excelled in her debut, showcasing remarkable skill with five saves amid fierce competition. Honorable mentions include Seattle’s Claudia Dickey and Kansas City’s Laurel Ivory, but Justus claimed the spotlight.
Defender: Esme Morgan (Washington Spirit)
Fresh from celebrating England’s triumph in the 2025 UEFA Women’s Euro, Morgan returned to the Washington Spirit and delivered a champion’s performance, proving vital in defense during crucial moments.
Defender: Phoebe McLanon (Seattle FC)
McLanon emerged as a key figure in Seattle’s defensive lineup, helping maintain a clean sheet by leading the team with impressive statistics in clearances and recoveries during their match.
Defender: Kristen McNabb (San Diego Wave FC)
As San Diego seeks to rebuild, veteran McNabb has been a steadying force, balancing her experience with the excitement of rookie center back Trinity Armstrong.
Defender: Tyler Russi (North Carolina Courage)
Russi played both defensively and offensively, stepping up to ensure her team secured a scoreless draw while showcasing her adaptability on the field.
Midfielder: Mina Tanaka (Utah Royals)
Japanese international Tanaka made a strong impact by scoring a spectacular opening goal against Orlando Pride shortly into the match.
Midfielder: Croix Bethune (Washington Spirit)
Returning from the international break, Bethune played a pivotal role in the Spirit’s offense, assisting in a key goal that demonstrated her growth this season.
Midfielder: Jess Fishlock (Seattle FC)
Having had a landmark summer with Wales, Fishlock brought her experience back to Seattle, scoring crucial goals and energizing her teammates.
Forward: Penelope Hocking (Bay FC)
Hocking’s remarkable performances place her as a leading contender for Most Improved Player, proving essential to her club’s success with her scoring ability.
Forward: Tenwa Chawinga (Kansas City Current)
Chawinga has become a scoring machine, netting her ninth goal of the season as she chases the Golden Boot, solidifying her status as a formidable forward.
Forward: Trinity Rodman (Washington Spirit)
Rodman’s comeback after injury was celebrated as she scored the game-winning goal shortly after substituting in, pushing her team to a critical victory.
Coach: Adrian Gonzalez (Washington Spirit)
With Gonzalez back at the helm for the remainder of the season, the Spirit look to capitalize on their recent successes and the return of key players.
Honorary Captain: Rachir Kundanaj (Bay FC)
Kundanaj continues to be a reliable playmaker, contributing assists while proving her relentless spirit despite lacking goals this season.
Fan Take: This news is crucial for soccer enthusiasts as it highlights individual talents and their impact on the league, demonstrating the growing competitiveness of the NWSL. The performances of these players could inspire the next generation and elevate the visibility of women’s soccer, fostering its continued growth on the global stage.
