Following the international break, the NWSL season resumed with week four action, bringing back Attacking Third`s team of the week. Each week in 2025, Attacking Third will be recognizing top performers from the weekend by selecting their best XI.
Attacking Third analysts will also choose a head coach for team of the week honors. These accolades can go to players and coaches even from teams that perform well in games that don`t result in victories.
The season is still early, but week four showcased significant individual performances after the international window. It`s worth noting how players are settling back in after national team duties.
Best XI for Week 4
Forwards
Alyssa Thompson (Angel City FC): Thompson delivered a standout performance for Angel City after returning from the U.S. women`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 contender for league honors.
Esther Gozalez (Gotham FC): After representing Spain and scoring in the UEFA women`s nations league, Gonzalez scored two goals in Gotham`s 3-1 victory over North Carolina. This marks her first goals for the club after four weeks. Her strong defensive work rate didn`t hinder her attacking contributions.
Ludmila (Chicago Stars FC): The Brazilian international turned on her brilliance, scoring twice for the struggling Stars. Ludmila`s two goals secured the Stars` first win of the season, addressing their previous struggles in front of goal.
Midfielders
Leicy Santos (Washington Spirit): Santos, the attacking midfielder, scored a fantastic free-kick, securing a win for the Spirit on the road against Louisville. She and Ashley Hatch have been consistent attacking threats for the Spirit, as other attacking players return from injury.
Hina Sugita (Portland Thorns FC): Sugita has been crucial in the Thorns midfield, contributing both defensively and in distribution as the team finds its rhythm early in the season. While Reilyn Turner emerges as a leading scorer, Sugita provides vital connectivity and tempo control.
Debinha (Kansas City Current): Debinha earns her fourth consecutive team of the week selection, strengthening her early 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): Rookie defender Reale had another impressive game and scored her first professional goal this weekend. She was actively involved in attacking plays and displayed smart passing to connect with forwards. She topped the team in attempted crosses (5) and recoveries (8) during Gotham`s first win.
Emily Sams (Orlando Pride): Sams is proving to be one of the most consistent defenders in the league this season, demonstrated again this weekend after limited national team minutes. She immediately impacted the defense and led the team in recoveries (9) as Orlando secured their fourth consecutive victory.
Sam Staab (Chicago Stars FC): Staab`s comeback from an Achilles injury continues to be impressive, and her contributions this week helped Chicago achieve 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 impactful rookie in week four, Armstrong excelled in her first start for San Diego. The 17-year-old had the second-best 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 marked a significant comeback with a shutout against Utah. Returning to the goal for the first time since giving birth last July, she faced numerous crosses, shots, and corners. After this strong performance, the former starter could see more playing time.
Coach
Sam Laity (Angel City FC): A seasoned NWSL coach, Laity, usually in a supporting role, is now interim manager for Angel City. His strategy of giving younger players opportunities is proving effective, with these players gaining starts and responsibilities early in the season. This approach is working and should continue, especially as it leads to wins.
