NWSL Team of the Week: Ashley Sanchez and Mallory Swanson Shine Ahead of World Cup Break

As the 2026 NWSL regular season approaches a month-long break for the men's FIFA World Cup, the "Attacking Third" crew has announced their latest Team of the Week, recognizing top performers from the recent matches. With only two weeks remaining until the hiatus, players are seizing their final opportunities to make an impact and vie for individual accolades. This week's selection notably features North Carolina Courage's Ashley Sanchez, who is making a strong push in the Golden Boot race, and the much-anticipated return of USWNT star Mallory Swanson for Chicago Stars FC.

The Latest Best XI

The "Attacking Third" analysts compile their Team of the Week, including a head coach and an honorary captain, based on individual performances across the NWSL weekend. This selection process considers not just match outcomes but also players who command the game through their skill and influence. The latest lineup showcases a blend of seasoned veterans and rising stars who delivered pivotal moments for their teams.

Key Defensive Performances

In goal, Denver Summit's Abby Smith earned her spot by limiting Golden Boot contender Barbra Banda to just one goal and effectively organizing her defense against nine shots. Tierna Davidson of Gotham FC also impressed, scoring her first NWSL goal since returning from injury with a clever toe poke that extended Gotham's lead. Utah Royals' Del Fava showcased defensive resilience, leading her team in touches, recoveries, and clearances, despite their impressive 536-minute shutout streak coming to an end. Angel City's Sarah Gorden was crucial in snapping her team's losing streak with key plays against star striker Sophia Wilson.

Midfield and Attacking Prowess

Veteran centerback Jaelin Howell of Gotham FC provided quiet leadership and consistent play, ranking in the top three for duels, recoveries, and touches, and completing all four of her passes into the final third. North Carolina's Manaka Matsukubo, after a slower start due to international duty, is now hitting her stride, creating chances and generating shots. Wave FC's 18-year-old Kimmi Ascanio delivered late-game drama by scoring a game-winner against one of the league's most in-form teams.

Golden Boot Race Heats Up

Two-time Golden Boot winner Temwa Chawinga has re-entered the race with a pair of goals against the Houston Dash, demonstrating her scoring prowess. Keeping pace, North Carolina's Ashley Sanchez continues to impress, scoring her sixth goal of the season with a dazzling display on the left wing. Michelle Cooper also earned a spot on the team, contributing two assists and showcasing her ability to both create and score.

Coaching and Honorary Mentions

San Diego Wave FC's coach Jonas Eidevall returned to the sidelines after a red card suspension and made tough coaching choices that paid off, including giving Trinity Byars her debut, where she scored in her first start. This week's honorary captain is Mallory Swanson, who made her first return to the pitch for Chicago Stars FC after maternity leave, a moment celebrated across the league for its significance.

Datos clave

The performances highlighted in this NWSL Team of the Week underscore the competitive nature of the league and the individual brilliance on display as teams navigate the crucial period before the international break. For fans and analysts, these selections offer a snapshot of the players currently shaping the NWSL narrative.

Fuente: CBS Sports Soccer RSS, https://www.cbssports.com/soccer/news/nwsl-team-of-the-week-ashley-sanchez-uswnt-mallory-swanson-kansas-city-current/