2026 NWSL Season Overview
As the 2026 National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) season progresses, with approximately one-quarter of the matches completed, the standout talents are becoming increasingly clear. With enough games played to provide a reliable assessment, it’s time to identify the league’s elite players and evaluate their contributions this season.
ESPN’s NWSL Top 25
ESPN has released its inaugural NWSL Top 25, a ranking that assesses players solely based on their performance during the early part of the season since its start on March 13. This list focuses exclusively on current form rather than historical achievements or name recognition. Because of this, several prominent names have been excluded from consideration, at least for now.
This new ranking serves as an evolution of ESPN’s previous MVP Tracker, expanding its scope to include a broader array of top performers. Ratings are based on extensive film study and advanced statistics, merging qualitative insights and quantitative data sourced from ESPN Global Research. The aim is to ensure a balanced representation of players across various positions, although the list is not simply a tally of those with the most goals.
Standout Players
Among those who have excelled is Meza, who has made her mark as a defensive powerhouse, ranking second in the league for defensive interventions. Her skills were evident in a key early match against the Kansas City Current.
Despite being a rookie, Dudley has shown remarkable talent, quickly acclimating to the professional arena as a vital contributor to a rising Gotham team, utilizing her speed and precision to deliver powerful crosses from the wing.
Similarly, Angel City’s forward, who wore the No. 9 jersey, ignited the season with strong early performances, scoring three times and assisting on two goals. However, her output has slowed in recent games. Regardless, her presence is still felt on the field.
Orlando’s valuable player McClutcheon has also maintained her form, consistently delivering solid performances even with veteran Marta stepping back.
At the goalkeeping position, Campbell leads the league in goal prevention, impressively securing a 1-0 win over the San Diego Wave in the season opener. With only eight goals conceded over six games, her effectiveness is a cornerstone for Houston’s defensive strategy.
Defensive stability has been provided by Spirit’s Morgan, who, while trailing slightly in interventions compared to other centerbacks, has shown a lower error rate, thus earning early recognition in this tightly contested position.
Williams’s offensive contributions from her fullback role have also stood out, placing her among the top ranks for chances created and assists this season.
Rookies and Emerging Talents
For rookies like Godfrey, early career highlights have come in the form of clutch goals, whereas Van Zanten has showcased scoring in bursts, reflecting a high-energy approach characteristic of her Houston team.
On the attacking front, Kohler has emerged as a surprising force for the season with four goals, demonstrating excellent positioning and finishing skills throughout her matches.
Continuing with exciting players, Manaka’s flexibility on the pitch combines the roles of forward and midfielder effectively, contributing to a strong performance return following her success in Japan.
Despite the pressure of a recent team transfer, Hutton is proving her worth with tenacity and skill, showcasing an impressive command of both offensive and defensive responsibilities.
Fleming has matured into a central role for Portland following a key player’s departure, providing essential stability in midfield which has led to new organizational strengths for the Thorns.
For the Spirit, Santos’s scoring prowess comes from her ability to make intelligent runs, while Tordin’s youthful dynamism has also been significant, contributing goals and assists in crucial situations.
Elsewhere, Lacasse has stood out for Utah, capitalizing on defensive lapses with her creative play as a key contributor this season.
Sanchez is reborn in a new wide role, netting five goals in her opening matches, adapting her playstyle to effective advantage against defenders.
Banda‘s return from injury has been marked by breathtaking performances, leading the Golden Boot race with seven goals already.
Lavelle continues to be a central playmaker for Gotham, capitalizing on her creative flair and vision.
Dali, even at 35, remains a commanding figure in midfield with elite vision and passing accuracy, while Kouassi supports the Spirit‘s transition game beautifully, contributing to the strategy despite not yet scoring.
Dudinha has showcased her agility and skill, applying pressure on opponents and contributing significantly with crucial assists, even if her name is not always on the score sheet.
Conclusion
In perhaps the most impressive debut so far, Moultrie is making a solid claim for the MVP title with her dynamic performances, highlighted by significant contributions in goals and assists for Portland, demonstrating her exceptional talent and tactical awareness.
Current standings indicate a season rich with talent and competition, establishing the 2026 NWSL season as one of the most compelling yet.
