NWSL Team of the Week: A Celebration of Excellence

As the 2026 NWSL regular season reaches its climax, the competition is heating up, and the performances are getting more impressive by the week. In this edition of the NWSL Team of the Week, we shine the spotlight on the outstanding players who made a significant impact on the pitch.

Goalkeeper: Jordan Silkowitz (Bay FC)

Bay FC’s Jordan Silkowitz has been a stalwart in goal this season, racking up an impressive 85 saves through 19 games. Her shot-stopping clinic against Houston Dash earned her a spot in this week’s team. With her incredible reflexes and quick thinking, Silkowitz has proven herself to be one of the top goalkeepers in the league.

Defenders:

• Rafaelle (Orlando Pride) – The Brazilian international was instrumental in helping Orlando Pride scrape their way out of a slump. With three shot blocks and 18 clearances, Rafaelle provided defensive coverage that was unmatched.
• Jayden Perry (Portland Thorns FC) – Perry’s exceptional skill and vision on the pitch allowed her to control the ball and distribute it effectively. Her contributions were crucial in helping Portland pick up their first clean sheet since July 5.
• Sarah Gorden (Angel City) – A league veteran, Sarah Gorden knows how to produce big moments when the team needs it. Her two critical blocks against Gotham FC disrupted any link-ups between Sam Kerr and Jaedyn Shaw.

Midfielders:

• Lauren Milliet (Racing Louisville) – With three assists over two games, Lauren Milliet put herself on the team. Her heads-up assist off a short throw-in showcased her exceptional vision and passing range.
• Jessie Fleming (Portland Thorns) – Fleming’s line-breaking pass ability and vision were on full display as she delivered a long ball through to find Sophia Wilson for a goal.
• Haley McCutcheon (Orlando Pride) – McCutcheon welcomed back Barbra Banda with a foot on a great pass for the game winner against Washington Spirit.
• Mallory Swanson (Chicago Stars FC) – Swanson’s skillful spin-in-the-box goal and epic call-your-shot assist to Jameese Joseph earned her a spot on the team.

Forwards:

• Ashley Sanchez (North Carolina Courage) – Sanchez has taken the lead in the NWSL Golden Boot race, and it’s unlikely she’ll stop scoring anytime soon.
• Trinity Byars (San Diego Wave FC) – Byars has been the answer to San Diego’s goal-scoring woes. Her two goals and an assist earned her team of the week honors.
• Kat Rader (Houston Dash) – Rookie Rader has been having a good season for the Dash, and her ability to score can’t be ignored.

Coach and Honorary Captain:

• Coach: Karina Baez (Chicago Stars FC) – Baez made history as the first-ever Mexican woman to win an NWSL game in a head coaching role. Her 3-2 win over Racing Louisville brought joy to the lakefront for Chicago.
• Honorary Captain: Tobin Heath (Portland Thorns) – Heath was honored with a one-day contract and officially retired as a Portland Thorns player. A U.S. Soccer Hall of Famer, two-time World Cup winner, and Olympic gold medalist, Heath left an indelible mark on the league.

Conclusion:

This week’s NWSL Team of the Week is a testament to the incredible talent and dedication of the players in the league. From goalkeepers to forwards, defenders to midfielders, each player has shown exceptional skill and sportsmanship. As the season reaches its climax, we can’t wait to see what’s in store for these outstanding athletes.