NWSL Team of the Week Recap: Top Performers and Standout Performances

The 2026 NWSL regular season is heating up as playoff positioning comes into focus. Each weekend, the Attacking Third analysts recognize the league’s top performers by naming a Team of the Week, backed by data, stats, and expert analysis. Here’s a breakdown of this week’s selections, highlighting the players who made the biggest impact on the pitch.

Goalkeeper of the Week

Sandy MacIver (Washington Spirit)

In a tense matchup against the Portland Thorns, Sandy MacIver delivered a game-changing performance. Facing relentless pressure in the first half, she pulled off several crucial saves to keep the score level and boost her team’s confidence. MacIver’s agility and composure under fire earned her the goalkeeper spot on the NWSL Team of the Week.

Defenders of the Week

Izzy Rodriguez (Kansas City Current)

Fullback Izzy Rodriguez stunned fans and pundits alike by scoring directly from a corner kick—the rare “Olympico.” Her precision, combined with tenacious defensive work, made her a standout on both ends of the field.

Tara Rudd (Washington Spirit)

Former forward turned center back, Tara Rudd stepped up in a high-pressure moment by converting a crucial penalty against Portland. Rudd’s composure and versatility underscore her value in the heart of defense.

Esme Morgan (Washington Spirit)

Throughout the match versus the Thorns, Esme Morgan anchored the backline with remarkable consistency. She led her team in recoveries and ranked second in clearances, helping to stabilize play and thwart multiple Portland attacks.

Evelyn Shores (Angel City FC)

Angel City’s dependable defender added an offensive flair by netting a second-half brace against Racing Louisville. Shores’ attacking runs and aerial presence helped secure three vital points on the road.

Midfielders of the Week

Haley McCutcheon (Orlando Pride)

A defensive midfielder known for her tenacity, McCutcheon surprised onlookers with a thunderous long-range strike. Her all-around play disrupted opponents and contributed both defensively and offensively.

Melissa Bethi (Washington Spirit)

Bethi made history by becoming the first Algerian international to score in the NWSL. Her timely goal put Washington ahead and showcased her technical skill in a pivotal moment.

Croix Bethune (Kansas City Current)

Bethune continued her remarkable season by recording another game-winning assist, matching her single-season assist record set during her rookie year. Her vision and distribution remain a constant threat in midfield.

Forwards of the Week

Barbra Banda (Orlando Pride)

The Zambian international netted one goal and provided an assist, forcing an own goal to extend her tournament resume. Banda’s clinical finishing keeps her in the golden boot conversation heading into the season’s final stretch.

Ashley Sanchez (North Carolina Courage)

Sanchez further solidified her Golden Boot lead with a hat-trick on the road. Her goal-scoring consistency has pushed her to 18 regular-season goals, the most ever by an American player in a single NWSL season.

Yuzuki Yamamoto (Denver Summit)

Since joining late in the campaign, Yamamoto has made an immediate impact, scoring in consecutive games. Her intelligent movement and finishing ability have elevated Denver’s attack and inspired the expansion side’s playoff push.

Coach and Honorary Captain

Coach of the Week: Nick Cushing (Denver Summit)

Under Nick Cushing’s guidance, Denver Summit achieved a signature win over the reigning champions. His tactical adjustments and clear communication have the expansion team closing in on the playoff line with steady performances.

Honorary Captain: Ashley Sanchez (North Carolina Courage)

Beyond her hat-trick heroics, Sanchez’s record-setting season earns her the honorary captaincy. Her relentless goal-scoring and leadership on the field continue to define the Courage’s title aspirations.

Looking Ahead

With just two months left in the regular season, every point matters. These Team of the Week selections highlight players who are elevating their teams and influencing playoff races across the NWSL. Stay tuned for more analysis and the next edition of the NWSL Team of the Week as the contest for postseason berths intensifies.