As the 2025 NWSL regular season passes the quarter-mark, the league is finding its rhythm, and the “Attacking Third`s” Team of the Week returns. Following each weekend`s matches during the 2025 NWSL campaign, “Attacking Third” analysts select a top XI and a coach based on exceptional performances.
Now eight weeks into the season, some players are repeat honorees, while others are making their first appearance on our list this year. For reference, you can review our selections for week seven.
To catch all the NWSL action, fans can watch select regular season games on various CBS platforms, including CBS, CBS Sports Network, Paramount+, and CBS Sports Golazo Network.
Here is our selection for the Best XI:
Goalkeeper: Abby Smith (Houston Dash)
The veteran goalkeeper was thrust into action for Houston`s tactical road match against Seattle. Smith, who signed as a free agent in the offseason, earned the start over long-time captain Jane Campbell. Head coach Fabrice Gautrat cited Smith`s strong training efforts, noting the team will continue to evaluate their options week-to-week as they move past the season`s first quarter.
Smith delivered a crucial late save to preserve Houston`s one-goal advantage in her first start of the regular season, and her first since August 2023. She and the Dash successfully kept Seattle off the scoreboard.
Defender: Perle Morroni (San Diego Wave FC)
The French international covered significant ground against the Portland Thorns, frequently pushing higher up the pitch and actively participating in build-up play. The outside back was key in creating attacking sequences, linking up with midfielders Savannah McCaskill and Kenza Dali, and provided the assist for San Diego`s only goal.
Defender: Sam Staab (Chicago Stars FC)
Chicago continues to struggle for results, but Sam Staab`s effort is undeniable. The experienced defender has been vital in keeping games competitive for Chicago this season. In week eight, she showcased her offensive abilities, leading the team with 71 total touches and finding the net with a goal against her former club.
As Darian Jenkins noted on Attacking Third, “Back from injury, she doesn`t just have a long throw and a banging left foot, she can put them away too.” Jenkins elaborated that Staab initiated the play from midfield, drove forward, and was in the perfect position to finish a cross for Chicago`s goal, earning her a spot on the list despite Chicago`s struggles.
Defender: Tara McKeown (Washington Spirit)
A common theme for this week`s Best XI defenders is their offensive contribution. The former forward McKeown is no stranger to attacking combinations, and her skills were on full display during the road game against Chicago.
Defender: Hailie Mace (Kansas City Current)
Another outside back essential to her team`s attack? That was Hailie Mace for Kansas City in week eight. The fullback provided not one, but two assists for the Current. While the coaching staff has depth on the backline, Mace`s consistent coverage and attacking partnerships are making her difficult to rotate out of the lineup.
Midfielder: Taylor Flint (Racing Louisville FC)
Louisville is finally starting to find their form, and Taylor Flint`s presence in the midfield is a major factor. The central midfielder scored a stunning game-winning goal, which was the only tally of the match, and also led her team in aerial challenges with nine.
Midfielder: Denise O`Sullivan (North Carolina Courage)
The Irish international makes another appearance on our Best XI, remaining a consistent force for the Courage in week eight. She provided a crucial reliable presence as the team made tactical adjustments against a challenging Orlando Pride side, demonstrating her ability to execute her assignment regardless of the game plan.
Midfielder: Debinha (Kansas City Current)
The Brazilian international returns to our Best XI after a stellar performance against Bay FC. She is steadily building her case for MVP honors week after week. As teams settle in past the quarter mark, Debinha appears to be hitting her stride. Whether scoring from open play or a dead ball situation, she has been clinical through week eight.
Forward: Rosemonde Kouassi (Washington Spirit)
As the Spirit manage injuries, many players are working back to full fitness, and perhaps none more important than the Ivorian international. A midseason acquisition last season, she has regained her form and delivered a breakout performance against Chicago, contributing a goal and an assist, and creating the kind of pressure that led to an own goal.
Forward: Temwa Chawinga (Kansas City Current)
Back on the score sheet and our Best XI after a four-game drought, Chawinga sealed the Current`s dominant victory against Bay FC. The coaching staff has been cautious while the star striker has managed a persistent hip injury, but the reigning Golden Boot winner showed no signs of slowing down in week eight.
Forward: Christen Press (Angel City FC)
While Angel City`s coaching staff focuses on developing young talent and exciting games, the veteran forward served as a reminder of the importance of roster balance in high-pressure matches. Substituted in during the second half for her most minutes of the season, she needed just 20 seconds to dramatically alter the game`s trajectory. The young squad also relied on her experience and presence as they navigated the emotions following a medical emergency involving Savy King.
Coach: Bev Yanez (Racing Louisville FC)
Coaching through not one, but two lightning delays? Racing Louisville FC coach Bev Yanez certainly earned Coach of the Week honors. She kept her team focused and composed on the road in Houston, enduring one delay that stretched close to two hours. The victory marks two consecutive positive results for a team that struggled through the initial quarter of the regular season.
