Kansas City Current midfielder Debinha named NWSL Best XI First Team, presented by Mastercard

The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) announced the 2023 Best XI First Team and Second Team awards, presented by Mastercard. Kansas City Current midfielder Debinha was named to the First Team for the second straight season. She also earned Monthly Best XI awards in March/April, June, and August

“Deb is one of the best players in the world,” said general manager Camille Ashton. “Her creativity, vision and ability to impact any game is incredible. More than that, she is an unbelievable leader, a true team player and we are so proud of her and excited to see her receive the recognition she deserves.

Debinha joined the Current as a free agent prior to the 2023 season. The Brazilian midfielder made an immediate impact with her new team. She scored the club’s first multi-goal game with two scores against Gotham April 30. Her nine goals on the season set a new club record for single season scoring and was only two goals shy of the NWSL Golden Boot. Adding in the three goals she scored in the 2023 Challenge Cup, Debinha also tied the club record for most goals scored across all competitions in a single season.

The Best XI First Team and Best XI Second Team are based on weighted voting scale comprised of players (40%), owners/GMs/coaches (25%), media (25%) and fans (10%). Each athlete will receive a cash bonus for their achievements this season as part of Mastercard’s celebration of the Best XI and Best XI Second Team. 

NWSL Best XI First Team, presented by Mastercard
GK: Jane Campbell (HOU)

D: Naomi Girma (SD), Ali Krieger (NJNY), Sarah Gorden (LA), Sam Staab (WAS)

MF: Sam Coffey (POR), Debinha (KC), Jaedyn Shaw (SD)

F: Kerolin (NCC), Sophia Smith (POR), Lynn Williams (NJ/NY)

NWSL Best XI Second Team, presented by Mastercard

GK: Kailen Sheridan (SD)

D: Emily Fox (NCC), Kaleigh Kurtz (NCC), Jenna Nighswonger (NJNY), M.A. Vignola (LA)

MF: Savannah DeMelo (LOU), Savannah McCaskill (LA), Denise O’Sullivan (NCC)

F: Ashley Hatch (WAS), Alex Morgan (SD), Trinity Rodman (WAS)