Lianne Sanderson's Predictions for 2025 NWSL MVP: Top Contenders Revealed

As the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) embarks on the second half of its 2025 season, anticipation builds among fans and analysts alike regarding the coveted Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. Notable ESPN analyst and former footballer Lianne Sanderson has shared her insights on the leading contenders for the MVP title, emphasizing the outstanding performances that have characterized this season thus far.

The NWSL has witnessed thrilling matches, impressive displays from both rookies and seasoned players, and a fiercely competitive Golden Boot race. Despite the season being far from over, discussions surrounding potential MVP candidates have intensified, as players strive to solidify their legacies.

In her analysis, Sanderson highlights five players who have significantly impacted their teams this season, showcasing their individual talents and contributions.

**5. Delphine Cascarino** Delphine Cascarino, who joined San Diego midway through the previous season, has made a notable impact in her first full season. As of now, she has scored three goals and leads the league with five assists. Her performance during the summer break for the French national team further solidified her reputation, where she scored twice and assisted twice in just three matches. Sanderson praised Cascarino's one-on-one skills and her ability to deliver critical passes, stating, "Cascarino always looks dangerous. She’s the best in the league for me at going one-on-one and has an incredible final ball."

**4. Debinha** Despite battling an injury that sidelined her until after the summer break, Debinha’s influence on the Kansas City offense remains undeniable. She has contributed five goals and an assist, demonstrating her strategic playmaking abilities. Sanderson noted Debinha's exceptional football IQ, which she believes sets her apart from her peers. "She has been incredible this season – scoring goals, assisting, her touches and manipulation of the ball," Sanderson remarked. "She’s my favorite player to watch in the league."

**3. Barbra Banda** Barbra Banda, who finished second in the Golden Boot race last season with 17 goals, has continued to make her mark. With eight goals and an assist this season, she currently holds third place in the Golden Boot standings. Earlier in the season, Banda made history by achieving the fastest hat trick in NWSL history, scoring three goals in just 38 minutes. Sanderson commended her consistent performance, stating, "Banda hasn’t skipped a beat from last season. She’s a constant threat."

**2. Temwa Chawinga** The reigning MVP, Temwa Chawinga, is making a strong case for another title with her relentless offensive presence. Currently, she has netted eight goals and provided two assists, placing her second in the Golden Boot race. Sanderson emphasized Chawinga's dual-threat capability, noting, "You can never switch off with Temwa. She's doing what she does best – scoring goals."

**1. Esther González** Leading the Golden Boot race is Esther González, who has maintained a high scoring rate despite the ongoing challenges of the league. Notably, she shone in the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025, continuing her scoring prowess for the Spanish national team. Sanderson remarked, "She’s always a threat and scoring goals for fun this year. Even when the team hasn’t played well, she has."

As the NWSL season progresses, the competition for the MVP title remains fierce, with numerous players capable of making a significant impact in the final games. Fans eagerly await how these top contenders will perform as they strive for both individual accolades and team success. ESPN continues to provide expert analysis and coverage of the league, with Lianne Sanderson at the forefront of these discussions on NWSL games.

For continuous updates and detailed insights into the NWSL, fans can access ESPN's coverage, which offers in-depth analysis and commentary on each player's journey throughout the season.