NWSL Team of the Week Weekly Roundup

Only in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) can a single weekend deliver hat-tricks, upsets and clean sheets all at once. Week 9 of the 2026 regular season featured exceptional performances across the league, making our Team of the Week selection a true challenge. Here’s a breakdown of the Best XI, head coach and honorary captain who rose above the weekend’s action.

Goalkeeper of the Week

Casey Murphy (Boston Legacy FC)

Murphy anchored a defensive unit that kept Gotham FC at bay with six crucial saves. Her organization and shot-stopping instincts were on full display at City Stadium, where her late reaction save set up a vital clearance off the post by Jorelyn Carabali, earning Boston Legacy a hard-fought draw.

Defensive Standouts

Mimi Van Zanten (San Diego Wave FC)

Rookie fullback Van Zanten notched her first NWSL goal, combining defensive solidity with an eye for attack. Her overlapping runs and pinpoint finish highlighted a growing confidence in San Diego’s backline.

Kate Del Fava (Utah Royals FC)

Del Fava’s tireless work rate helped the Royals record back-to-back clean sheets. She led Utah’s defensive efforts, covering every blade of grass and providing crucial interceptions and tackles to protect goalkeeper Mandy McGlynn.

Janine Sonis (Denver Summit)

Since shifting to fullback, Sonis has seamlessly blended defensive duties with offensive thrusts. Her brace against Orlando Pride illustrated her positional versatility and cemented Denver Summit’s place among the league’s rising sides.

Rafaelle (Orlando Pride)

Rafaelle delivered a commanding performance under steamy conditions, topping Orlando’s touches (68) and clearances (six). The Brazilian center back also turned provider with a game-winning assist that lifted the Pride to a rare victory.

Midfielders Making an Impact

Yazmeen Ryan (Denver Summit)

Ryan dismantled her former club with two assists, displaying impeccable vision and distribution. Her ability to unlock defenses fueled Denver Summit’s dominant midweek display.

Katie O’Kane (Racing Louisville FC)

O’Kane produced her first career brace in a stoppage-time thriller over the Portland Thorns. Her second goal—a perfectly struck free-kick—sealed Louisville’s statement comeback and underlined her set-piece prowess.

Mina Tanaka (Utah Royals FC)

Tanaka orchestrated Utah’s midfield en route to a road clean sheet, tallying two assists and controlling tempo. The Japanese international’s composure and creativity remain key to the Royals’ upward trajectory.

Forward Line: Goals Galore

Barbra Banda (Orlando Pride)

Banda continued her red-hot scoring streak, netting her eighth in eight appearances to extend her lead in the golden boot race. The forward’s clinical finishing once again proved decisive for the Pride.

Dudinha (San Diego Wave FC)

Despite San Diego’s recent slump, Dudinha stood out with a goal and a match-winning assist in the derby against Angel City. Her individual brilliance and hold-up play keep the Wave’s attack potent.

Temwa Chawinga (Kansas City Current)

Temwa time struck again as Chawinga recorded a rapid hat-trick in just 50 minutes, marking her first goals of the season. The two-time golden boot winner demonstrated she’s back to full fitness and ready to propel Kansas City up the table.

Coach and Honorary Captain Selections

Coach of the Week: Bev Yanez (Racing Louisville FC)

Yanez masterminded Louisville’s stunning 3-1 upset of the top-of-the-table Portland Thorns. Smart substitutions and tactical adjustments turned the game on its head and earned her coaching honors.

Honorary Captain: Claire Emslie (Angel City FC)

Returning from maternity leave, Emslie made her first NWSL appearance since May 2025 just in time for Mother’s Day. Her resilience and leadership epitomize the spirit of the league and serve as inspiration for teammates and fans alike.

Looking Ahead

As the 2026 NWSL season heats up, performances like these will shape playoff races and MVP discussions. Stay tuned each week for our Team of the Week breakdown, and join the conversation to highlight the players making headlines across the league.