NWSL Team of the Week: Kerr reaches historic milestone as Attacking Third analysts highlight 2026 season performances

Attacking Third analysts have released their National Women’s Soccer League Team of the Week selection for the 2026 season, covering performances from the most recent weekend of matches in the second half of the regular season schedule. The selection highlights significant individual milestones and defensive solidity across the league, with Gotham FC’s Sam Kerr emerging as a central figure in the latest honours.

Kerr scored her 31st regular-season goal for Gotham FC, becoming the first player in NWSL history to reach 80 regular-season goals and the club’s all-time leader in that category. Her inclusion follows a performance where she was assisted by fellow Team of the Week member Jaedyn Shaw, who provided a long set-piece service and a slice-and-dice assist inside the box. Shaw’s contributions have positioned her as a dark horse candidate for club MVP, while Kerr’s off-the-ball movement and timing in tight spaces continue to make her a lethal threat.

Gotham FC goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger leads the league in clean sheets with nine and made key saves against the Kansas City Current to help her team secure a narrow victory. Berger’s consistency has placed her firmly in the conversation for the Goalkeeper of the Year race. Alongside her, defender Midge Purce returned to the team after scoring a quick equalizer from a set piece, reinforcing Gotham’s ongoing competition for the NWSL Shield.

Defensive recognition extended beyond Gotham, with Utah Royals right-back Miyabi Moriya stealing the show with a game-changing equaliser. Denver Summit outside back Ayo Oke was also recognised for his defensive work, ranking second on his team in clearances with three. Oke’s ability to cover tough moments over the course of a long season was noted as a key factor in his selection.

Other notable inclusions featured Utah midfielder Narumi Miura, who scored a long-range goal, and Racing Louisville forward Emma Sears, who scored her 20th career goal and provided an assist for Katie O’Kane. Houston Dash forward Clarissa Larisey made a significant impact off the bench, scoring two goals in 13 minutes of stoppage time against North Carolina, including a game-winner. The selection also acknowledged Racing Louisville’s recent form, with the team winning three consecutive games under head coach Bev Yanez.

Previous honours in the series included players such as Caiya Hanks from the Portland Thorns, Ashley Hatch from the Washington Spirit, Sydney Leroux from Angel City, and Jenna Nighswonger from Bay FC, who returned to the pitch following extended absences. The Attacking Third crew continues to produce these selections for a second consecutive year, choosing a best XI, head coach, and honorary captain based on weekend performances.