Ashley Sanchez Leads NWSL Team of the Week with Record Hat-Trick

The 2026 NWSL regular season is nearing its conclusion, with teams vying for playoff spots as the pressure mounts. In this critical phase of the season, standout performances are essential, and the Attacking Third's NWSL Team of the Week honors highlight those who have stepped up in significant ways.

This week, the spotlight shines on North Carolina Courage's Ashley Sanchez, who continues to assert her dominance in the league. With a remarkable hat-trick against Chicago, Sanchez not only propelled her team to victory but also set a new record for the most goals scored by an American player in a single regular season, bringing her total to 18. Her consistent scoring prowess has made her a key player to watch as the season winds down.

Defensively, the Washington Spirit's Sandy MacIver made headlines with a standout performance against the Portland Thorns, showcasing her skills as a goalkeeper during a high-pressure match. Her ability to keep the Thorns at bay was crucial in maintaining her team's momentum.

Kansas City Current's Izzy Rodriguez also made waves this week, scoring an incredible Olympico directly from a corner kick, a feat that left fans and analysts alike in awe. Her contribution exemplifies the growing trend of defenders making significant impacts on the scoreboard.

The Washington Spirit's Tara Rudd, a former forward turned centerback, demonstrated her versatility by successfully converting a penalty against Portland, showcasing the importance of adaptability in player roles. Meanwhile, Esme Morgan's defensive efforts helped stabilize the Spirit's backline, leading the team in recoveries and clearances during a challenging match.

Angel City FC's Evelyn Shores had a standout performance, scoring two goals against Racing Louisville, further solidifying her team's playoff aspirations. Her ability to contribute offensively from a defensive position highlights the evolving roles of players in modern football.

Orlando Pride's Haley McCutcheon also made headlines with a stunning long-range goal, proving that defensive midfielders can be game-changers in attack. Additionally, Melissa Bethi's historic goal for the Washington Spirit marked her as the first Algerian international to score in the NWSL, adding another layer of significance to the match.

As the season progresses, Kansas City Current's Croix Bethune continues to impress, matching her all-time single-season record for assists with a game-winning setup for Rocky Rodriguez. This consistency has made her a regular feature in the Team of the Week honors.

The Final Whistle

The expansion side, Denver Summit, is also making strides, with Yuzuki Yamamoto scoring in consecutive games, contributing to their impressive run towards the playoff line. Coach Nick Cushing's ability to integrate new players effectively has been a key factor in their success.

With the playoffs on the horizon, the performances of players like Ashley Sanchez will be pivotal. Her record-setting hat-trick not only highlights her individual talent but also raises the stakes for the remaining matches as teams jockey for position. As the NWSL season approaches its climax, all eyes will be on Sanchez and her pursuit of further records, making the final weeks of the season an exciting time for fans and players alike.