The 2025 NWSL regular season has reached the quartermark, and with that comes the return of Attacking Third’s team of the week. Each week, the analysts at Attacking Third select a best XI and a coach based on standout performances from the weekend’s fixtures.
As we approach the midway point of the season, we can expect to see some familiar faces in our team of the week as players hit their stride. If you want to catch up on previous teams, you can check out our week six lineup here.
With seven match weeks in the books, fans can catch NWSL regular season matches on various CBS platforms, including CBS, CBS Sports Network, Paramount+, and CBS Sports Golazo Network.
Let’s take a closer look at our best XI for this week:
Goalkeeper: Alyssa Naeher (Chicago Stars FC)
Alyssa Naeher kept a clean sheet against a strong Gotham FC side, making five crucial saves, including a game-saving stoppage-time block.
Defender: Phoebe McClernon (Seattle Reign FC)
Phoebe McClernon was a rock at the back for Seattle Reign FC, holding off the attacking threats of Kansas City with a stellar performance.
Defender: Gisele Thompson (Angel City FC)
Gisele Thompson’s commanding presence in defense, coupled with her threat from set-pieces, earned her a spot in the team of the week.
Defender: Trinity Armstrong (San Diego Wave FC)
17-year-old rookie Trinity Armstrong impressed with her defensive solidity and even managed to score a crucial game-winning goal for San Diego Wave FC.
Defender: Reyna Reyes (Portland Thorns FC)
Reyna Reyes scored the decisive goal for Portland Thorns FC, showcasing her defensive prowess and attacking instincts from the backline.
Midfielder: Kenza Dali (San Diego Wave FC)
Kenza Dali’s midfield control and tactical awareness have been instrumental in San Diego’s success this season, making her a regular feature in our team of the week.
Midfielder: Denise O’Sullivan (North Carolina Courage)
Denise O’Sullivan’s leadership and playmaking abilities have been key for North Carolina Courage as they look to turn their season around.
Midfielder: Katie Zelem (Angel City FC)
Katie Zelem’s experience and composure in midfield have been crucial for Angel City FC, providing a balance of youth and experience in the squad.
Forward: Lynn Biyendolo (Seattle Reign FC)
Lynn Biyendolo’s goal-scoring instincts and work rate have been a valuable addition to Seattle Reign FC’s attacking lineup.
Forward: Riley Tiernan (Angel City FC)
Riley Tiernan’s impressive goal-scoring form has made her a standout rookie in the NWSL this season, with four goals in five games.
Forward: Ashley Sanchez (North Carolina Courage)
Ashley Sanchez’s creativity and attacking threat have been vital for North Carolina Courage as they look to climb up the standings.
Coach: Bev Yanez (Racing Louisville FC)
Racing Louisville FC coach Bev Yanez earns coach of the week honors for her leadership during a challenging match that included two lighting delays. Her ability to keep the team focused and secure a crucial win on the road was commendable.
Stay tuned for more exciting NWSL action as the season progresses, and keep an eye out for our next team of the week selection. With the rise of technology and social media, it has become easier than ever to stay connected with friends and family. However, this increased connectivity has also led to a decrease in face-to-face interactions and a rise in feelings of loneliness and isolation. In fact, a study conducted by the Health Resources and Services Administration found that around one-third of adults over the age of 45 report feeling lonely on a regular basis.
Loneliness is not just a feeling of sadness or being alone, it can have serious implications for both physical and mental health. Research has shown that chronic loneliness can increase the risk of developing heart disease, depression, and even dementia. In fact, some studies have found that chronic loneliness can be as damaging to your health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
One of the reasons why social media and technology can contribute to feelings of loneliness is the lack of meaningful connections that are made online. While it may seem like we are constantly connected to others through our phones and computers, these connections are often superficial and lack the depth and intimacy that comes from face-to-face interactions. In fact, a study published in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships found that spending too much time on social media can actually increase feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Another reason why technology can contribute to feelings of loneliness is the comparison trap that it often creates. When we are constantly bombarded with images of other people’s seemingly perfect lives on social media, it can be easy to feel like we are missing out or that our own lives are not measuring up. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and isolation, as we struggle to keep up with the unrealistic standards set by others online.
So, what can we do to combat feelings of loneliness in the digital age? One solution is to make a conscious effort to prioritize face-to-face interactions with friends and family. This could mean scheduling regular coffee dates with a friend, joining a local club or organization, or simply picking up the phone to call a loved one instead of sending a text. Making time for these meaningful connections can help to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Another solution is to practice self-care and mindfulness. This could include activities such as meditation, yoga, or journaling, which can help to reduce feelings of stress and anxiety and increase feelings of well-being. Additionally, taking breaks from social media and technology can also be beneficial, as it can help to give us a much-needed break from the constant barrage of information and images that can contribute to feelings of loneliness.
In conclusion, while technology and social media have made it easier than ever to stay connected with others, they can also contribute to feelings of loneliness and isolation. By prioritizing face-to-face interactions, practicing self-care, and taking breaks from technology, we can help to combat feelings of loneliness and build more meaningful connections with others in the digital age.
