THREE ROSES NAMED TO NSL TEAM OF THE SEASON

THREE ROSES NAMED TO NSL TEAM OF THE SEASON
Published on
November 05, 2026
BENNETT, BILBAULT, AND KARPENKO SELECTED TO LEAGUE’S BEST XI 

The Northern Super League (NSL) today announced its 2026 Team of the Season, featuring three members of the Montréal Roses: goalkeeper Anna Karpenko, midfielder Charlotte Bilbault, and forward Elyse Bennett. The recognition follows a campaign in which Montreal captured the Supporters’ Shield, the first trophy in franchise history.

The selection marks an increase for the club, which had one player named to the league’s best XI during its inaugural 2025 season.

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KARPENKO

Karpenko made 22 appearances during the regular season, logging 1,917 minutes in goal. Sher recorded seven shutouts and made 63 saves before a knee injury sustained on September 27 in Halifax concluded her season. 

Her performances earned her NSL Goalkeeper of the Year honours as well as the Golden Glove award. 

BILBAULT

At 36 years old, Bilbault started all 25 regular season matches, standing out as the only Montreal midfielder to do so. The French international finished third on the squad in successful tackles with 63. 

Beyond her defensive metrics, Bilbault provided crucial tactical stability through her composure on the ball, spatial awareness, and distribution from central midfield. One of the club’s initial player signings in October 2024, she brought experience gained across European competition. 

BENNETT

Bennett led Montreal in scoring with 11 goals and registered a team-high 27 shots on target, finishing second in the NSL Golden Boot race. Like Bilbault, the Wisconsin native started all 25 regular season fixtures.

Bennett carried that form into the postseason, factoring into all three Montreal goals (one goal, two assists) during the first leg of the semi-finals on November 1 in Vancouver. 

“Having three of our players named to the Team of the Season reflects the consistency and collective maturity our squad has developed throughout this campaign,” said Marinette Pichon, Montréal Roses Sporting Director. “Anna was the cornerstone of our defensive stability prior to her injury, Charlotte brings vital leadership, tactical vision, and composure to our midfield, and Elyse served as a primary reference point for our attack. Progressing from a single selection in 2025 to three this year is a direct testament to the rigorous work done across our entire organization.”

The Montréal Roses host Vancouver Rise FC in the second leg of the NSL semi-finals on Sunday, November 8 at 4:00 p.m. ET at Stade Boréale. Montreal holds a 3-0 lead on aggregate. Tickets are available at en.rosesmtl.ca/tickets.