After the international break, the National Women`s Soccer League (NWSL) returned with exciting week four action, bringing back the Attacking Third`s Team of the Week. Each week in the 2025 season, Attacking Third highlights the top eleven players based on their weekend performances.
Attacking Third analysts also select a Coach of the Week. These honors can go to players and coaches from any team, even those who didn`t win, as long as they showed strong performances.
The season is still young, but week four showcased impressive individual performances after the international window. Keep an eye on players as they return from national team duties. For those following along, you can also check out the NWSL Team of the Week for week three.
Fans can watch select NWSL regular season games on CBS platforms, including CBS, CBS Sports Network, Paramount+, and CBS Sports Golazo Network.
Forwards
Alyssa Thompson (Angel City FC): Thompson delivered a stellar performance for Angel City after playing for the U.S. national team. She scored a goal and provided an assist against Houston, securing three important points. Thompson is clearly Angel City`s most valuable player and a top contender in the league.
Esther Gonzalez (Gotham FC): Fresh off scoring for Spain in the UEFA Women`s Nations League, Gonzalez scored twice in Gotham FC`s 3-1 victory over North Carolina. This was her first scoring appearance for the club in four weeks, and her strong defensive work didn`t hinder her attacking contributions.
Ludmila (Chicago Stars FC): The Brazilian international made a big impact, scoring two goals for the struggling Stars. Ludmila`s goals gave the Stars their first win of the season, addressing their previous lack of scoring.
Midfielders
Leicy Santos (Washington Spirit): Santos scored a beautiful free-kick goal, securing the Spirit`s win on the road against Louisville. She and Ashley Hatch have consistently led the Spirit`s attack while other offensive players recover from injuries.
Hina Sugita (Portland Thorns FC): Sugita is crucial to the Thorns` midfield, contributing both defensively and in distribution as the team develops this season. While Reilyn Turner is emerging as a top scorer, Sugita provides valuable tempo control and connection.
Debinha (Kansas City Current): Debinha earns her fourth consecutive Team of the Week selection, strengthening her MVP case. 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 in the Golden Boot race with her teammate Temwa Chawinga.
Defenders
Lilly Reale (Gotham FC): The rookie defender continued her strong start, scoring her first professional goal this weekend. She was actively involved in attacking plays and showed smart passing in connecting with forwards. She led Gotham FC in crosses (5) and recoveries (8) during their first win of the season.
Emily Sams (Orlando Pride): Sams has been one of the most consistent defenders in the league this season and proved it again this weekend after limited national team minutes. She immediately impacted Orlando`s defense, leading the team with 9 recoveries as they secured their fourth straight victory.
Sam Staab (Chicago Stars FC): Staab`s impressive return from last year`s Achilles injury continues, and her contributions helped Chicago earn their first win. Her presence strengthens Chicago`s defense and her long passing adds a new dimension to their offense.
Trinity Armstrong (San Diego FC): Another impressive rookie in week four, Armstrong excelled in her first start for San Diego. The 17-year-old had the second-highest tackle success rate (66.7%) and clearances (3) for her team in 76 minutes against Kansas City Current.
Goalkeeper
Bella Bixby (Portland Thorns FC): Bixby made a remarkable comeback, earning a shutout against Utah. Returning to the goal for the first time since giving birth last July, she faced numerous crosses, shots, and corners, demonstrating her clutch performance and potential for more playing time.
Coach
Sam Laity (Angel City FC): A long-time NWSL coach, Laity has often been an assistant, except for a year as head coach in Houston. Now, as interim manager for Angel City, his strategy of giving younger players opportunities is paying off. This approach is leading to wins and should be continued.
