With two matches remaining in the 2026 NWSL regular season, every result continues to shape the playoff picture and the race for the NWSL Shield. The latest Attacking Third Team of the Week honors the players and coach whose performances stood out over the weekend.
Each edition combines statistical production, analyst evaluation and notable game-day performances. With the league’s longest schedule to date—30 matches per team—selecting an 11-player lineup presents a difficult task as the season reaches its decisive final stretch.
Here is the latest team of the week:
Goalkeeper: Sandra Paños (San Diego Wave FC)
San Diego Wave have been in excellent form as the playoffs approach, and their success has been built on a settled goalkeeping position. After rotating among Luisa Agudelo, Leah Freeman and Didi Haracic, the club brought in Sandra Paños from Club América during the midseason transfer window. Paños faced 23 crosses and 13 shots while making three saves against North Carolina, helping the Wave earn three more points in the Shield race.
Defender: Sofia Huerta (Seattle Reign FC)
With Seattle Reign hovering just below the playoff line, every match is critical. Outside back Sofia Huerta extended her career assist total to 35 by creating Nerilia Mondesir’s second goal and putting Seattle on course for a decisive victory.
Defender: Gabrielle Robinson ( Kansas City Current)
The Kansas City Current are gaining momentum at an important stage of the season, and Robinson’s work in defense has been central to their success. The center back recorded five clearances and shared the team lead with two interceptions, helping Kansas City keep a clean sheet against the Utah Royals.
Defender: Mimi Van Zanten (San Diego Wave FC)
Mimi Van Zanten earns a return to the team of the week after another composed performance for San Diego. The rookie outside back has started consistently throughout the season and was influential against North Carolina, both in attacking areas and during recoveries. Van Zanten led the Wave with six tackles and recorded seven defensive recoveries.
Defender: Gabrielle Carle (Washington Spirit)
Gabrielle Carle made a major impact in Washington Spirit’s crucial win over Gotham FC. She helped the Spirit keep a clean sheet while leading the team in touches with 62, tackles with five and duels won with 11. The victory secured a playoff berth and kept Washington in contention for the NWSL Shield.
Midfielder: Melissa Bethi (Washington Spirit)
Algerian international Melissa Bethi proved decisive in the second half of Washington’s playoff-bound match against Gotham. She delivered the game-winning assist for Lucia Di Guglielmo, whose goal secured the Spirit’s place in the postseason.
Midfielder: Ally Sentnor (Angel City FC)
Ally Sentnor continues to demonstrate a dangerous ability to score from distance. Her long-range strike against Denver Summit ended the opposition’s playoff hopes and earned the midfielder a place on the weekly team.
Midfielder: Kenza Dali (San Diego Wave FC)
Kenza Dali has become an essential link in San Diego Wave’s midfield. Her ability to connect defense and attack has been particularly evident in the buildup to Melanie Barcenas’ goal, highlighting the value she provides whenever she is on the field.
Forward: Maddie Mercado (Seattle Reign FC)
Maddie Mercado made a decisive contribution to Seattle Reign’s latest victory by scoring twice. Her clinical finish from a long pass by Jess Fishlock ensured the Reign secured three important points in the race for a playoff position.
Forward: Haley Hopkins (Kansas City Current)
Haley Hopkins has emerged as a clutch scorer for the Kansas City Current. She has found the net six times in three appearances, including a brace against the Utah Royals that helped her team secure a clean sheet and three points.
Forward: Trinity Byars (San Diego Wave FC)
Trinity Byars continues to add creative quality to San Diego Wave’s attack. Her cleverly chipped game winner, alongside Melanie Barcenas’ strike, showcased the Wave’s ability to produce goals that are as effective as they are imaginative.
Coach: Adrian Gonzalez (Washington Spirit)
Adrian Gonzalez receives coach of the week honors after guiding Washington Spirit to a win that secured a playoff berth and maintained their challenge for the NWSL Shield. His tactical plan against Gotham was executed effectively, with the team remaining compact, managing Leicy Santos’ return and making a timely substitution for Bethi.
Honorary captain: Lucia Di Guglielmo (Washington Spirit)
Lucia Di Guglielmo is the honorary captain after scoring the game winner and registering her first NWSL goal. The Italian international joined Washington Spirit during the offseason and continues to make an important contribution to the team’s success.