NWSL Team of the Week Highlights: Swanson, Heath and More

As the 2026 NWSL regular season enters its crucial final third, players continue to deliver standout performances. Each week, our analysts identify the top 11 performers, a head coach and an honorary captain based on statistics, impact moments and overall influence on the pitch. This week’s edition shines a spotlight on Mallory Swanson of Chicago Stars FC, honors Portland Thorns legend Tobin Heath and recognizes emerging talents across the league.

How the Team of the Week Is Chosen

Our selection process combines quantitative data—saves, clearances, assists, goals—with qualitative analysis from our pundits. We consider big-match moments, influence on results and consistency over the weekend’s fixtures. Following each round of NWSL matches, we assemble the best XI in a formation that highlights each player’s strengths, while also naming a coach and an honorary captain who made history or celebrated a milestone.

Defensive Standouts

Goalkeeper: Jordan Silkowitz (Bay FC)

Leading the league with 85 saves in 19 games, Bay FC’s Jordan Silkowitz once again proved why she ranks among the NWSL’s elite shot-stoppers. Her double-save against Houston Dash secured a clean sheet and kept her team in contention throughout the match.

Defender: Rafaelle (Orlando Pride)

Brazilian international Rafaelle anchored Orlando’s backline, recording three blocks and 18 clearances in a hard-fought battle against Washington Spirit. Her aerial dominance and timely interventions were crucial in limiting Spirit chances.

Defender: Jayden Perry (Portland Thorns FC)

Fullback Jayden Perry helped Portland earn their first clean sheet since early July. Her composed buildup from defense to midfield showcased her ability to control possession and launch key counterattacks.

Defender: Sarah Gorden (Angel City)

Veteran center back Sarah Gorden delivered two critical blocks against Gotham FC, effectively neutralizing threats from Sam Kerr and Jaedyn Shaw. Her defensive leadership set the tone for Angel City’s resilient performance.

Midfield Excellence

Lauren Milliet (Racing Louisville)

In a rare double match week, Milliet tallied three assists across two fixtures. Her vision off a short throw-in created a goal for Taylor Flint, underlining her importance in Louisville’s creative midfield.

Jessie Fleming (Portland Thorns FC)

Canadian international Jessie Fleming orchestrated Portland’s attack with a pinpoint long ball that split Denver’s defense and found Sophia Wilson for the opener. Fleming’s range of passing continues to elevate the Thorns’ attacking efficiency.

Haley McCutcheon (Orlando Pride)

With Barbra Banda back in the lineup, McCutcheon ensured her presence was felt by converting a slick pass into the game-winning goal against Washington Spirit. Her anticipation and first-touch control make her a dynamic presence in midfield.

Mallory Swanson (Chicago Stars FC)

Returning to form, Swanson’s deft spin and finish in the box put Chicago back in front against Racing Louisville. She also delivered a “call-your-shot” assist to Jameese Joseph, highlighting her creative flair and technical skill.

Forward Stars

Ashley Sanchez (North Carolina Courage)

A new leader in the NWSL Golden Boot race, Sanchez netted a clinical finish that underscored her lethal instincts on the wing. Her scoring streak shows no signs of slowing down as the Courage push for a playoff position.

Trinity Byars (San Diego Wave FC)

Byars was unstoppable, scoring twice and adding an assist in San Diego’s key win. Her blistering half-field sprint for the go-ahead goal demonstrated both pace and composure under pressure.

Kat Rader (Houston Dash)

Rookie forward Kat Rader continues to impress. She capitalized on Avery Patterson’s precise cutback to extend her scoring run, proving to be a reliable finisher for the Dash during midweek action.

Coach and Honorary Captain

Coach: Karina Baez (Chicago Stars FC)

Interim head coach Karina Baez celebrated a milestone with Chicago’s 3-2 victory over Racing Louisville, snapping a four-game winless streak. Baez made history as the first Mexican woman to guide an NWSL team to a regular-season win.

Honorary Captain: Tobin Heath (Portland Thorns FC)

Portland Thorns honored club legend Tobin Heath with a ceremonial one-day contract and jersey retirement. A two-time World Cup champion and U.S. Soccer Hall of Famer, Heath remains the Thorns’ all-time assist leader and a beloved figure in women’s soccer.

Looking Ahead

With the season winding down, every point matters in the NWSL playoff race. Keep an eye on this week’s honorees as they aim to carry forward their momentum. Stay tuned for next week’s Team of the Week, where we continue to showcase the best performers from around the league.