In women’s soccer, defenders play a crucial role, being responsible for keeping the defense solid and preventing opponents from scoring goals. That said, how about getting to know the best defenders of all time?
These players are known for their strength, tactical intelligence and ability to lead the defensive line.
Defenders often need to combine physical and mental skills to anticipate opponents’ moves, intercept passes and win aerial duels. Over the years, many players have excelled in this position, helping their teams achieve great things and leaving a lasting legacy in the sport.
The best female defenders of all time
1. Wendie Renard
Wendie Renard is widely regarded as one of the best defenders of all time. Playing for Lyon and the French national team, she is known for her defensive skills, physical presence and leadership on the pitch. Renard has won multiple Champions League and French League titles. Interestingly, she is one of the most respected captains in women’s soccer.
2. Marta Vieira da Silva
Marta is best known for her attacking skills, but throughout her career she has also shown great versatility, including playing as a defender at times. With a glittering career at clubs such as Umeå IK and Orlando Pride, Marta is a true soccer legend. She is the only player to have been named FIFA World Player of the Year six times.
3. Becky Sauerbrunn
Becky Sauerbrunn is one of the most consistent defenders in the United States. Playing for clubs such as Utah Royals and Portland Thorns, she is known for her impeccable reading of the game and leadership skills. Sauerbrunn has two World Cups under her belt and is a key figure in the American defense.
4. Nilla Fischer
Nilla Fischer, from Sweden, is a defender respected for her physical strength and defensive ability. Playing for clubs such as Wolfsburg and Linköpings FC, Fischer was a key player in her teams’ achievements, including Bundesliga and Champions League titles. She also helped Sweden win Olympic medals.
5. Steph Houghton
England’s Steph Houghton is one of the most respected leaders in the women’s game. Playing for Manchester City, Houghton is known for her ability to organize the defense and her precision in long passes. She captained the England team in several international competitions, including the World Cup. She can’t be left out of the list of the best defenders of all time.
6. Saki Kumagai
Saki Kumagai, from Japan, is an internationally renowned defender. With spells at clubs such as Lyon and Bayern Munich, Kumagai is known for her calmness under pressure and ability to intercept moves. She was crucial to Japan’s victory at the 2011 World Cup, converting the decisive penalty in the final.
7. Irene Paredes
Irene Paredes, from Spain, is a solid defender with an impressive career at clubs like PSG and Barcelona. Paredes is known for her aerial skills and leadership on the pitch. She helped PSG win the French League and has been a constant presence in the Spanish national team.
8. Kadeisha Buchanan
Kadeisha Buchanan, from Canada, is a young defender who has already achieved many notable feats. Playing for Lyon, Buchanan is known for her strength and ability to read the game. She helped Canada win Olympic medals and Lyon win European titles.
9. Birgit Prinz
Birgit Prinz is best known as a striker, but she has also had notable defensive performances throughout her career. With spells at clubs such as 1. FFC Frankfurt, Prinz is one of the most versatile players in history. She helped Germany win several World Cups and European Championships.
10. Leah Williamson
England’s Leah Williamson is one of the promising young prospects in women’s soccer. Playing for Arsenal, she is known for her technical ability and leadership skills. Williamson has been a constant presence in the England squad, helping the team reach new heights on the international stage.
List: the best defenders of all time
- Wendie Renard
- Marta Vieira da Silva
- Becky Sauerbrunn
- Nilla Fischer
- Steph Houghton
- Saki Kumagai
- Irene Paredes
- Kadeisha Buchanan
- Birgit Prinz
- Leah Williamson
Female defenders shine in their individual careers and play crucial roles in the success of their teams and national teams. Their exceptional skills, determination and passion for sport have inspired many young athletes to follow in their footsteps.
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