As the National Women`s Soccer League (NWSL) 2025 season hurtles into its final quarter, the stakes couldn`t be higher. With just seven match weeks remaining, every tackle, every pass, and every goal holds immense weight in the fiercely contested race for playoff berths. Week 19 offered a masterclass in league parity, where traditional powerhouses were challenged and underdog teams clawed their way to crucial points. This was a week defined by individual brilliance, tactical shrewdness, and the unyielding spirit of competition, culminating in a captivating display of women`s soccer at its finest.
Amidst this high-octane environment, a special honor was bestowed upon a legend, reminding us of the foundations upon which this exciting league is built. But before we delve into legacies, let us celebrate the contemporary heroes who shaped the narratives of Week 19, earning their place in the coveted Team of the Week.
Defensive Masterclass: The Wall Between Victory and Defeat
In a league where goals often steal the headlines, the stoic performances of goalkeepers and defenders are the bedrock of any successful campaign. Week 19 was no exception, showcasing several pivotal defensive displays that turned the tide of matches:
- Jane Campbell (Houston Dash): The veteran goalkeeper once again proved her mettle, securing a vital clean sheet against San Diego. Her experience and shot-stopping prowess were instrumental in Houston`s defensive solidity.
- Bruninha (Gotham FC): Earning a second consecutive Team of the Week nod, the Brazilian international is becoming a defensive “cheat code” for Gotham. Her tireless work rate, covering vast swaths of the field and dominating duels (leading all defenders with 11), underscores her impact as a modern fullback.
- Sam Staab (Chicago Stars FC): A historic moment for Staab, who not only anchored Chicago`s defense but also etched her name into the club`s new stadium history by scoring the first-ever goal at Northwestern Medical Field at Martin Stadium.
- Esme Morgan (Washington Spirit): The England international provided a calm, consistent presence in the Spirit`s backline, helping them maintain a clean sheet. Her ability to “keep it simple, put somebody on their behind a time or two, and just win their challenges” is a testament to effective defending.
- Paige Nielsen (Houston Dash): Another Houston stalwart, Nielsen literally put her body on the line. Her recent run of form—25 clearances, 10 interceptions, and a goal in her last four starts—highlights a centerback in peak condition, locking down defenses when it matters most.
Midfield Maestros: Orchestrating Opportunities and Breaking Lines
The engine room of any team, the midfield, was buzzing with activity. Week 19 saw midfielders dictate tempo, create chances, and deliver crucial goals:
- Jaelin Howell (Gotham FC): A holding midfielder with a penchant for the spectacular, Howell disrupted opponents` play and then delivered a crossbar-rattling “banger” from outside the box. This moment felt like a definitive statement in Gotham`s playoff push.
- Julia Grosso (Chicago Stars FC): The Canadian international was a whirlwind of offensive output, contributing both an assist and a goal. Her dynamic cuts and decisive shots in the box helped Chicago inflate their lead against Orlando, showcasing her vital role as a connective collaborator.
- Leicy Santos (Washington Spirit): Despite a heavy schedule balancing club and country commitments, Santos`s return to the starting lineup was perfectly timed. Her exquisite lob pass for Trinity Rodman`s opening goal was a moment of pure class, demonstrating her vision and precision.
Forward Firepower: The Golden Boot Race Ignites
Upfront, the NWSL`s most potent attackers continued their quest for glory, with the Golden Boot race tightening and MVP conversations gaining momentum:
- Temwa Chawinga (Kansas City Current): Give her an inch, and she`ll take a mile. Chawinga`s 12th goal of the season not only propelled her to the top of the Golden Boot standings but also amplified the MVP chatter around her name. Defenders face a perpetual “bad news” scenario when she`s on the ball.
- Trinity Rodman (Washington Spirit): The return of one of the league`s brightest stars from injury is always a boost, but Rodman`s performance was in a class of its own. Growing more comfortable with increased minutes, she delivered a stunning brace, reminding everyone of her formidable talent.
- Ludmila (Chicago Stars FC): Fresh off August Player of the Month honors, Ludmila continued her relentless scoring form, bagging her 10th goal of the season. Her consistency keeps the Golden Boot race thrillingly open and Chicago`s hopes alive.
Tactical Acumen: The Coach`s Touch
Behind every successful team, there`s a guiding hand. Fabrice Gautrat (Houston Dash) deserves immense credit for his team`s resurgence. With a six-game unbeaten streak, whether it`s the midseason break or the infamous Houston heat, Gautrat has galvanized his squad into a cohesive unit that no playoff contender wants to face right now.
A Legacy Honored: Alex Morgan`s Enduring Impact
Amidst the ferocity of the playoff chase, Week 19 also offered a moment of profound reflection: the retirement of USWNT legend Alex Morgan`s No. 13 jersey by San Diego Wave FC. This act isn`t just about a number; it`s a testament to a career that transcended the pitch, shaping the game for generations to come. Morgan has been, and continues to be, an indelible force—a scorer, a leader, and an advocate. Her legacy serves as a powerful reminder that while new stars emerge and battles are won, the foundations are laid by those who change the game forever. It`s a poignant link between the NWSL`s rich history and its vibrant, dynamic present.
Week 19 was a microcosm of the NWSL`s enduring appeal: unpredictable, intensely competitive, and filled with moments of breathtaking skill and human drama. As the 2025 season barrels towards its thrilling climax, the blend of veteran leadership, emerging talent, and strategic genius promises an unforgettable sprint to the playoffs. The league`s parity ensures that no match is a foregone conclusion, setting the stage for a final quarter that is bound to be etched into the annals of women`s soccer history.
