The NWSL 2025 regular season resumed following a short pause for the international window, and Week 11 delivered exciting action that was well worth the wait. Fans witnessed dramatic late-game winners, significant career milestones, and top teams reinforcing their elite status. Amidst the excitement, several players delivered exceptional individual performances, leading Attacking Third to name its weekly best XI.
Following each week`s games during the 2025 NWSL season, Attacking Third analysts select the top eleven players and a coach based on their outstanding displays over the weekend. With the season nearing its midpoint, it`s expected that players from leading clubs will appear multiple times, reflecting their teams` strong positions at the top of the standings.
However, this selection isn`t limited to players from top teams. Angel City earned representation after an exciting 2-2 draw against Chicago Stars FC. Additionally, several players (and the coach) are making their first appearance in our Team of the Week.
Here is our selection for the Best XI:
Goalkeeper: Claudia Dickey (Seattle Reign FC)
Leading American goalkeepers in several key metrics after 10 games, including save percentage (74.4%), goals against (10), crosses faced (198), and crosses claimed (12), Claudia Dickey`s performance is strongly supported by data, as famously noted by USWNT coach Emma Hayes (`the data don`t lie`). Dickey made a crucial save against a tough San Diego opponent.
Defender: Rebeca Bernal (Washington Spirit)
The Mexican international has been a dynamic force for the Washington Spirit, effectively playing multiple roles across the field, including defensive midfield and center back. This week, Bernal was instrumental in shutting down opposing attacks from the backline. Spirit teammate Esme Morgan highlights her consistent energy: “She`s such a strong defender. She loves going and winning aerial balls from long goal kicks… 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.”
Defender: Ellie Jean (Racing Louisville FC)
Experienced centerback Ellie Jean played a vital role in Racing Louisville`s push towards a playoff spot. She was key in shutting down opponent attacks and also contributed offensively by scoring a goal.
Defender: Casey Krueger (Washington Spirit)
Casey Krueger earns her third consecutive appearance on our Team of the Week. The veteran defender continues to excel, whether tracking opponent transitions, scoring goals, or providing assists. Her consistent high-level performance has deservedly earned her repeated recognition.
Defender: M.A. Vignola (Angel City FC)
A powerful presence on Angel City`s defense, M.A. Vignola combines intelligent defending with attacking vision. Her performance in Week 11 was highlighted by her ability to regain possession and score the crucial equalizer for her team.
Midfielder: Narumi Miura (Washington Spirit)
Narumi Miura returns to the Best XI with a significant impact. The Japanese international was a midfield engine, leading the team in touches (59) and chances created (three), and providing an assist for Gift Monday`s goal. She has been a steady performer for the Spirit amidst roster challenges due to injuries.
Midfielder: Sally Menti (Seattle Reign FC)
Sally Menti made an impactful contribution by scoring her first NWSL goal, securing her spot on our Team of the Week. She was a valuable addition to the midfield in a challenging away match. Besides being second on her team in recoveries (seven), her effectiveness with the ball after winning possession stood out.
Midfielder: Vanessa DiBernardo (Kansas City Current)
While attention might focus on the late own goal, it would be remiss to overlook Vanessa DiBernardo`s tireless efforts throughout the match. Her inclusion in our Best XI this week aims to provide deserved individual recognition, which has sometimes been lacking in her career despite her consistent hard work on and off the ball. She also reached a significant milestone, becoming the fifth player in NWSL history with 200 regular-season appearances.
Forward: Gift Monday (Washington Spirit)
The Nigerian international scored her fourth goal of the season in a dynamic, end-to-end match. Gift Monday has been a key positive for the Spirit as they navigate various injuries. Her movement within the penalty area was excellent, culminating in an impressive diving header for the goal.
Forward: Temwa Chawinga (Kansas City Current)
The reigning NWSL Golden Boot winner is firmly back in contention for this season`s award. Temwa Chawinga scored the winning goal just 11 minutes into a rainy match against Gotham FC. She is a master of timing and movement; even a slight advantage in positioning against defenders is often decisive.
Forward: Michelle Cooper (Kansas City Current)
Fresh from a U.S. Women`s National Team camp, Michelle Cooper returned showcasing her dangerous form. Capitalizing on Kansas City`s effective pressing game, the young forward confidently scored the opening goal just three minutes into the match.
Coach: Laura Harvey (Seattle Reign FC)
Laura Harvey led her team to victory in a tactical masterclass against San Diego. She reached a historic milestone, becoming the first coach in NWSL history to reach 250 matches at the helm, and remains the only coach to surpass 200 games.
Captain: Savy King (Angel City FC)
Defender Savy King was present at BMO Stadium following her successful emergency heart surgery. Her presence served as a powerful reminder that some things transcend soccer, and her return makes the league a stronger and better place.
