The 2025 NWSL regular season resumed following a brief pause for the international window, and Week 11 delivered compelling action that was well worth the wait. The matches featured dramatic late winning goals, players reaching significant career milestones, and playoff contenders reinforcing their status as elite teams. Amidst all this excitement, numerous players produced outstanding individual performances, prompting the return of Attacking Third`s Team of the Week selection.
After each week`s matches throughout the 2025 NWSL campaign, analysts from Attacking Third carefully choose a Best XI lineup and a coach based on exceptional displays over the weekend. As the season approaches its midpoint, it`s expected that players from top clubs will make repeat appearances, reflecting their teams` strong positions at the upper half of the league table.
However, this recognition isn`t limited to teams at the top. Players from clubs lower in the standings are also featured. Angel City is represented after their thrilling 2-2 draw against Chicago Stars FC. Additionally, this week`s team includes several players making their debut appearances, including the selected coach.
There`s plenty to anticipate in Week 12. Fans can watch selected NWSL regular season games across various CBS platforms.
Here is a look at our Best XI:
Goalkeeper: Claudia Dickey (Seattle Reign FC)
Through 10 games, this goalkeeper leads American shot-stoppers in the league across several key metrics: save percentage (74.4%), goals against (10), crosses faced (198), and crosses claimed (12). As USWNT head coach Emma Hayes often says, `the data doesn`t lie.` Dickey delivered a crucial save against a challenging San Diego side.
Defender: Rebeca Bernal (Washington Spirit)
The Mexican international has been an invaluable asset for the Washington Spirit, demonstrating versatility across defensive roles. Rebeca Bernal has effectively filled in as a defensive midfielder or center back when needed. This week, Bernal was particularly strong at the back, halting attackers effectively. Spirit teammate Esme Morgan highlighted her energy and defensive prowess, stating, “She`s such a strong defender. She loves going and winning aerial balls from long goal kicks, you kinda see the ball coming into the air and you know Rebe is going to come flying through to win it. She loves flinging herself in front of the ball for blocks and making strong tackles. I feel like she`s a really secure presence there.”
Defender: Ellie Jean (Racing Louisville FC)
Racing Louisville is moving closer to their playoff goal, and consistent performances are key, with experienced players like Ellie Jean proving vital. The veteran center back was instrumental in shutting down opponent attacks and also contributed offensively by scoring a goal.
Defender: Casey Krueger (Washington Spirit)
Casey Krueger makes her third consecutive appearance on our team of the week, a testament to her consistent excellence. Whether tracking down opposing transitions, scoring goals, or providing key passes, the veteran defender continues to earn widespread praise for her performances.
Defender: M.A. Vignola (Angel City FC)
M.A. Vignola is a formidable presence on Angel City`s defensive line, known for her intelligent defending and insightful attacking contributions. These qualities were clearly displayed in Week 11 as she repeatedly won back possession and scored the crucial equalizer for the home team.
Midfielder: Narumi Miura (Washington Spirit)
Narumi Miura returns to our Best XI after several weeks, making an impactful contribution. The Japanese international led her team`s midfield in total touches (59) and chances created (three). She also provided an assist for Gift Monday`s goal. Miura has been a consistent force for the Spirit midfield, which has seen rotation due to various injuries across the squad.
Midfielder: Sally Menti (Seattle Reign FC)
Sally Menti earned her spot on our team of the week by scoring her first NWSL goal in a significant manner. She was an excellent addition to the midfield in a difficult away match. Beyond her goal, she was second on the team in recoveries (seven) and effective with the ball after regaining possession.
Midfielder: Vanessa DiBernardo (Kansas City Current)
While some might focus on the own goal in the 101st minute, it would be a disservice to overlook Vanessa DiBernardo`s tremendous efforts throughout the preceding 100 minutes. This tendency for her contributions to be overlooked has been a theme throughout her career, but not this week by us. She makes our Best XI after performing extensive hard work both on and off the ball that doesn`t always appear on the scoresheet. Additionally, she became the fifth player in NWSL history to reach 200 regular-season appearances.
Forward: Gift Monday (Washington Spirit)
The Nigerian international netted her fourth goal of the season in a game that featured dynamic, end-to-end play at times. Gift Monday has been a significant positive for the Spirit, especially as they manage a revolving door of injuries. Her movement within the penalty box was highly effective, as demonstrated by her impressive diving header to redirect the ball into the net.
Forward: Temwa Chawinga (Kansas City Current)
The reigning NWSL Golden Boot winner is quickly climbing back into contention for this year`s award. Temwa Chawinga scored the game-winning goal just 11 minutes into a rainy match against Gotham FC. Chawinga is a master of timing and movement; if she gains even a slight edge on the defenders` line, she becomes nearly unstoppable.
Forward: Michelle Cooper (Kansas City Current)
Fresh from another call-up to the U.S. women`s national team camp, Michelle Cooper is back with Kansas City and looking as threatening as ever. Kansas City`s pressing strategy is effective and sharp, and the young forward showed no hesitation in scoring the opening goal just three minutes into the game.
Coach: Laura Harvey (Seattle Reign FC)
Laura Harvey secured a victory through a tactical masterclass against San Diego. She also made history by becoming the first coach in the NWSL to reach the 250-match milestone at the helm of a team. She remains the only coach in league history to surpass 200 games, and we anticipate seeing her continue to build on this remarkable record.
Captain: Savy King (Angel City FC)
Defender Savy King returned to BMO Stadium following her successful emergency heart surgery. Her presence during the game served as a simple yet powerful reminder that some things are far more important than soccer, and the league is a better, stronger community with her in it.
