NWSL team of the week: Barbra Banda, Temwa Chawinga start off dominating for Orlando Pride, K.C. Current

The 2025 National Women’s Soccer League season kicked off with a bang this past weekend, showcasing some thrilling matches and standout performances. While four games ended in 1-1 draws, there were teams that stood out with impressive wins and individual brilliance.

Defending champions Orlando Pride set the tone with a dominant 6-0 victory over Chicago Stars FC, led by a stellar performance from Barbra Banda who scored two goals and provided an assist. Meanwhile, Washington Spirit, the winners of the 2025 NWSL Challenge Cup, secured a hard-fought 2-1 win against Houston Dash on the road. Kansas City Current also made a statement with a 3-1 victory over Portland Thorns FC, with Temwa Chawinga, the 2024 Golden Boot winner, getting on the scoresheet.

Fans can catch all the action of the NWSL regular season on various CBS platforms, including CBS, CBS Sports Network, Paramount+, and CBS Sports Golazo Network.

Individual performances were key in securing victories for teams in the opening weekend. Here’s a look at the Best XI from week one:

Forwards:
1. Barbra Banda (Orlando Pride): The Zambia international was a standout performer with two goals and an assist, showcasing excellent ball control and finishing.
2. Temwa Chawinga (Kansas City Current): The Golden Boot winner from 2024 continued her scoring form with an early goal and was instrumental in the attack.
3. Ashley Hatch (Washington Spirit): Hatch scored the game-winner for her team and was active both on and off the ball, leading the team in shots and defensive contributions.

Midfielders:
1. Debinha (Kansas City Current): The Brazilian playmaker was a creative force, providing assists and scoring a goal in a strong display.
2. Angelina (Orlando Pride): The Brazilian international controlled the midfield, dictated the tempo, and led her team in recoveries.
3. Taylor Flint (Racing Louisville FC): Flint was a rock in midfield, breaking up opposition attacks and initiating plays for her team.

Defenders:
1. Casey Krueger (Washington Spirit): Krueger was solid at the back, making crucial interceptions and contributing to the attack with her dribbling.
2. Tierna Davidson (NJ/NY Gotham FC): Davidson anchored the defense effectively, winning tackles and distributing the ball with precision.
3. Rebeca Bernal (Washington Spirit): The Mexican defender impressed with her composure on the ball and defensive awareness.

Goalkeeper:
Anna Moorehouse (Orlando Pride): The English goalkeeper kept a clean sheet and made crucial saves to secure the win for her team.

The opening weekend of the NWSL season provided a glimpse of the excitement and quality of women’s soccer, setting the stage for an enthralling season ahead. Fans can look forward to more thrilling matches and standout performances as the campaign unfolds. Title: The Benefits of Meditation for Mental Health

In today’s fast-paced world, many people are seeking ways to improve their mental health and well-being. One practice that has gained popularity in recent years is meditation. Meditation has been used for centuries as a way to calm the mind, reduce stress, and promote overall wellness. In this article, we will explore the numerous benefits of meditation for mental health.

1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety: One of the primary benefits of meditation is its ability to reduce stress and anxiety. When we meditate, we are able to quiet the mind and focus on the present moment, which can help to alleviate feelings of worry and tension. Studies have shown that regular meditation practice can lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol, leading to a greater sense of calm and relaxation.

2. Improves Focus and Concentration: Meditation has been shown to improve focus, concentration, and cognitive function. By training the mind to stay present and focused on the breath or a mantra, individuals can enhance their ability to concentrate on tasks and improve their overall productivity. This can be particularly beneficial for those who struggle with attention issues or have a busy and demanding work schedule.

3. Boosts Mood and Emotional Well-Being: Meditation can also have a positive impact on mood and emotional well-being. Research has shown that regular meditation practice can increase levels of serotonin, the neurotransmitter responsible for regulating mood and happiness. By cultivating a sense of inner peace and contentment through meditation, individuals can experience greater emotional balance and resilience in the face of life’s challenges.

4. Enhances Self-Awareness and Mindfulness: Meditation promotes self-awareness and mindfulness, which are essential components of mental health. By tuning into our thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations through meditation, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and our patterns of behavior. This increased self-awareness can lead to greater self-acceptance, compassion, and a more positive self-image.

5. Reduces Symptoms of Depression and PTSD: Meditation has been shown to be an effective tool for reducing symptoms of depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health conditions. By promoting relaxation and a sense of inner peace, meditation can help individuals cope with the symptoms of these disorders and improve their overall quality of life. Some studies have even suggested that meditation can be as effective as medication in treating certain mental health conditions.

Overall, the benefits of meditation for mental health are vast and well-documented. By incorporating a regular meditation practice into your daily routine, you can experience improved stress management, enhanced focus and concentration, boosted mood and emotional well-being, increased self-awareness and mindfulness, and reduced symptoms of depression and PTSD. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced practitioner, meditation can be a valuable tool for promoting mental health and overall wellness in your life.