Week 10 NWSL Team of the Week: Top Performers and Key Takeaways

The 2026 NWSL regular season continues its sprint toward the midseason World Cup break, and standout individual efforts are already shaping the Golden Boot race and playoff picture. Attacking Third analysts have assembled their latest Team of the Week, highlighting the best XI, coach of the week, and an honorary captain return. Here’s a closer look at the players who commanded the weekend.

Goalkeeper of the Week

Abby Smith (Denver Summit FC)

Facing the league’s leading scorer is a daunting task, but Abby Smith rose to the occasion. She limited Barbra Banda to a single goal on nine shots, marshaled her back line with precision, and reinforced her reputation as one of the NWSL’s most consistent netminders.

Defensive Standouts

Tierna Davidson (Gotham FC)

Back in the starting XI after injury, the USWNT centerback chipped in her first goal of the season with a clever toe poke finish. Davidson’s defensive leadership and aerial presence were key as Gotham secured a vital result.

Kate Del Fava (Utah Royals FC)

Despite Utah’s shutout streak ending, Del Fava anchored the defense with 72 touches, seven recoveries, and four clearances. Her composed distribution and positioning helped Royals grind out a crucial victory.

Janine Sonis (Denver Summit FC)

Outside back Janine Sonis backed up a prolific scoring weekend with another brace, showcasing her dual threat. Sonis’s overlaps and timely runs continue to make her a must-watch in the NWSL.

Sarah Gorden (Angel City FC)

Veteran centerback Sarah Gorden delivered several game-saving interventions to stifle one of the league’s most dangerous attackers. Her resiliency helped Angel City snap a skid and regain momentum.

Midfield Maestros

Jaelin Howell (Gotham FC)

Howell’s quiet brilliance stood out as she finished top three in duels (10), recoveries (6), and touches (79). Her perfect accuracy on final-third passes demonstrated why she’s central to Gotham’s midfield rebuild.

Manaka Matsukubo (North Carolina Courage)

Fresh off international duty, Matsukubo has found her rhythm. She created multiple scoring chances, linked play effectively, and looked fully back to her dynamic best for the Courage.

Kimmi Ascanio (San Diego Wave)

At just 18 years old, Ascanio delivered the late winner against a top opponent. Her composure in the box and willingness to take responsibility under pressure are signs of future stardom.

Forward Force

Temwa Chawinga (Kansas City Current)

The two-time Golden Boot winner is back in the hunt after a quick brace against Houston. Chawinga’s clinical finishing and positioning make her a constant threat in front of goal.

Ashley Sanchez (North Carolina Courage)

Sanchez continues to spice up the Golden Boot race with her sixth goal of the season. Cutting in from the left wing, she remains one of the most unpredictable attackers in the league.

Michelle Cooper (Kansas City Current)

Cooper rediscovered her playmaking form with two assists, combining vision and technical skill on the flank. Her ability to unlock defenses complements Chawinga’s lethal finishing.

Coach of the Week

Jonas Eidevall (San Diego Wave)

Returning from suspension, Eidevall made decisive lineup choices that paid dividends. He integrated rookie striker Trinity Byars into a high-stakes match, and the tactical adjustments led to a statement win for Wave FC.

Honorary Captain

Mallory Swanson (Chicago Stars FC)

Swanson’s return from maternity leave deserves special recognition. Clocking her first minutes back on the pitch, she brings experience and creativity to the Stars’ forward line and serves as an inspiring example of balancing professional soccer and motherhood.

Looking Ahead

With only two weeks before the World Cup break, every performance matters in the race for individual awards and playoff seeding. Keep tracking the Team of the Week to see who will rise to the occasion as the midseason milestone approaches.