NWSL MVP race: Who’s rising to the occasion? Seven frontrunners to consider

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SEATTLE, WA - JULY 12: Forward Sophia Wilson #9 of the Portland Thorns holds the ball during a game between the Portland Thorns and Seattle Reign on July 12, 2026 at Lumen Field in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Henry Rodenburg/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

With games being played last weekend and some more last Wednesday, the MVP race continues.

Barbra Banda​

After scoring what was her 12th goal this season against Kansas City Current in the 85th minute, Barbra Banda continues to the strongest contenders to be named the MVP this season.

Barbra didn’t start last Wednesday when Orlando lost against Boston but came on as a sub in the 60th minute. If she’s healthy, it’s her award.

A wide open net doesn't stand a chance vs. Barbra Banda.#NWSLRivalries | @Allypic.twitter.com/8f0W5Wt1Lp

— National Women’s Soccer League (@NWSL) July 11, 2026

Ashley Sanchez​

Despite the loss the Courage suffered against the Spirit, she continued to affect the game. She has become very valuable to the team’s outcome, even if that is not always reflected on the scoresheet.

The threat she poses for the opponent in the midfield and frontline is unique in the league, handling high possession, orchestrating the attack, and finishing looks.

ASHLEY SANCHEZ CAN'T STOP SCORING!! pic.twitter.com/O5e8qtLW8t

— The Women's Game (@WomensGameMIB) July 5, 2026

Temwa Chawinga​

Even missing out on games due to injury, the two-time and reigning MVP is perennial candidate for this prestigious honor.

She has already climbed to third in the Golden Boot race with eight goals.

Temwa Chawinga tried to put this ball through the back of the net ‍ pic.twitter.com/sPGg9SNZ7k

— National Women’s Soccer League (@NWSL) July 4, 2026

Sophia Wilson​

The Portland Thorns’ decisive finisher is a goal-scoring threat that opponents double or triple-mark to stop her. The forward keeps center-backs busy, stretches defenses, and scores impossible goals. She has 12 goal contributions so far, divided into six goals and two assists.

Sophia Wilson with the backheel pass and the PERFECT finish pic.twitter.com/EuXvLfnnVv

— National Women’s Soccer League (@NWSL) July 6, 2026

Trinity Rodman​

Although Gotham was able to keep Trinity Rodman quiet in the loss they suffered last Wednesday, she did score in the weekend’s win against the Courage.

Besides, her playmaking prowess helps in transitions that have been pivotal to put Washington in the second position of the table.

Trin with the moves

Trinity Rodman finds the back of the net again! pic.twitter.com/DyOSL7KI2U

— National Women’s Soccer League (@NWSL) July 11, 2026

Olivia Moultrie and Kate Del Fava​

Other players such as Portland Thorns’ Olivia Moultrie and Utah Royals’ Kate Del Fava keep making a case for themselves and their stocks will go up in the following weeks.

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