NWSL 2025 Midseason MVP Tracker: Top Performers and Rising Stars

We are past the halfway point of the NWSL 2025 season, and it's time to evaluate the players who are making a significant impact. Here's a breakdown of the top performers based on ESPN's advanced data and expert analysis.

12. Manaka Matsukubo, North Carolina Courage midfielder

Manaka Matsukubo has been a standout for the Courage, contributing four goals and four assists in 15 games. Her vision and transition play have been crucial for North Carolina.

11. Lorena, Kansas City Current goalkeeper

Lorena leads the league in clean sheet percentage and is second in goals-against per 90. Her performance has been stellar despite changes in the defensive line.

10. Alyssa Thompson, Angel City FC forward

Alyssa Thompson co-leads the NWSL in chances created. Despite a recent scoring drought, she remains one of the most in-form American forwards.

9. Taylor Flint, Racing Louisville midfielder

Taylor Flint is a dominant force in midfield, leading the league in interceptions, duels, and aerials. Her presence is vital for Racing Louisville's playoff push.

8. Gift Monday, Washington Spirit forward

Gift Monday has quietly been a key player for the Spirit, scoring five goals and leading the attack in the absence of other stars.

7. Barbra Banda, Orlando Pride forward

Barbra Banda continues to be a top forward in the NWSL, despite a recent dip in scoring. Her Ballon d'Or nomination underscores her talent.

6. Kenza Dali, San Diego Wave midfielder

Kenza Dali leads the league in touches, passes attempted, and passes completed. Her experience and skill are crucial for San Diego's success.

5. Debinha, Kansas City Current forward/midfielder

Debinha remains a strong MVP contender, both creating and finishing chances. Her return from injury has been impactful.

4. Sam Coffey, Portland Thorns midfielder

Sam Coffey is the lynchpin for the surging Thorns. Her game awareness and ability to create chances are unmatched.

3. Esther González, NJ/NY Gotham FC forward

Esther González is the co-leader with 10 goals, more than half of Gotham's total scoring. Her crucial goals have kept Gotham in playoff contention.

2. Delphine Cascarino, San Diego Wave winger

Delphine Cascarino is the creative standard in the NWSL, co-leading with five assists. Her playmaking is essential for San Diego's playoff hopes.

1. Temwa Chawinga, Kansas City Current forward

Temwa Chawinga is inevitable, leading the league with 10 goals. Her consistency has been key to Kansas City's eight-game winning streak.

Fighting for inclusion on the list:

Riley Tiernan (Angel City FC), Rosemonde Kouassi (Washington Spirit), Marta (Orlando Pride), Claudia Dickey (Seattle Reign), Olivia Moultrie (Portland Thorns), Denise O'Sullivan (North Carolina Courage), Emily Sams (Orlando Pride), Emma Sears (Racing Louisville)