In soccer, the position of midfielder is crucial for the transition between defense and attack. The midfielders are responsible for protecting the defensive line, recovering possession of the ball and initiating attacking moves. So meet the best female midfielders of all time.
Over the years, many female players have excelled as midfielders, making significant contributions to their teams and national teams. These players have become symbols of leadership and technique, leaving a lasting legacy in women’s soccer.
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What is the role of the defensive midfielder in soccer?
The importance of defensive midfielders in soccer
The position of midfielder in soccer brings the responsibility of protecting the defensive line, intercepting passes, recovering possession and initiating offensive plays. Players must possess a combination of defensive skills, vision, stamina and passing ability. These players need to be tactically intelligent in order to read the game, anticipate their opponents’ actions and make quick decisions.
In addition, women’s soccer midfielders often cover large areas of the pitch, providing support to both defense and attack, making them essential to the balance and fluidity of the game.
The best female midfielders of all time
1. Formiga
To kick off our list of the best female midfielders of all time, Formiga, or Miraildes Maciel Mota, is one of the most iconic players in Brazilian women’s soccer. With an international career spanning more than two decades, Formiga has played for clubs such as São José and Paris Saint-Germain. She has taken part in seven World Cups and six Olympic Games, an impressive record. A curious fact is that she started playing soccer with boys in her hometown of Feira de Santana.
2. Homare Sawa
Homare Sawa is one of Japan’s and the world’s greatest players. Playing as a midfielder, Sawa led Japan to victory at the 2011 World Cup, where she was also voted Best Player and won the Golden Boot. She went on to play for clubs such as NTV Beleza and Washington Freedom. Sawa is known for her vision and ability to score decisive goals.
3. Shannon Boxx
Shannon Boxx is one of the best female midfielders of all time. Playing for clubs such as Chicago Red Stars and Portland Thorns, Boxx was instrumental in winning three Olympic gold medals and a World Cup for the US national team. Her stamina and ability to read the game made her a key player in midfield.
4. Amandine Henry
Amandine Henry, from France, is known for her technical ability and defensive skills. Playing for Lyon, Henry won multiple Champions League and French League titles. She was also named Best Player of the 2015 Champions League Final. Interestingly, Henry started playing soccer in a mixed team, being the only girl in the team.
5. Nadine Keßler
Germany’s Nadine Keßler is one of the most talented midfielders ever to play the game. Playing for Wolfsburg, Keßler helped her team win the Champions League and was voted FIFA World Player of the Year in 2014. Keßler is known for her vision and ability to control the midfield.
6. Carli Lloyd
Carli Lloyd, from the United States, is widely known for her attacking performances, but she has also played a crucial role as a midfielder. With a glittering career at clubs like Houston Dash and Sky Blue FC, Lloyd was instrumental in winning two World Cups and two Olympic gold medals. She is famous for scoring decisive goals at crucial moments.
7. Darlene de Souza
Darlene de Souza, from Brazil, is a versatile midfielder known for her ability to score goals and create attacking moves. Playing for clubs such as Ferroviária and Benfica, Darlene has excelled both in Brazil and in international competitions. She is known for her technical ability and vision of the game.
8. Elise Kellond-Knight
Australia’s Elise Kellond-Knight is a talented midfielder known for her defensive skills and accurate passing. Playing for clubs such as Washington Spirit and Melbourne City, Kellond-Knight was instrumental in Australia’s 2015 World Cup campaign. She is respected for her consistency and leadership on the pitch.
9. Fara Williams
England’s Fara Williams is one of the most experienced players in English soccer. With spells at clubs like Everton and Arsenal, Williams is known for her vision and ability to control the midfield. She is also the player with the most appearances for the England national team, notable for her longevity and talent.
10. Camille Abily
Camille Abily, from France, is one of the best female midfielders the country has ever produced. Playing for Lyon, Abily won multiple national and international titles, including several Champions Leagues. She is known for her technical ability and tactical intelligence, and is a key player in her teams. She certainly helps round off the list of the best female midfielders of all time.
Complete list: the 10 best female midfielders of all time
- Ant
- Homare Sawa
- Shannon Boxx
- Amandine Henry
- Nadine Keßler
- Carli Lloyd
- Darlene de Souza
- Elise Kellond-Knight
- Fara Williams
- Camille Abily
Women midfielders play an essential role in the success of their national teams. Their exceptional skills, determination and passion for the sport have inspired many young athletes to follow in their footsteps.
We hope this list has given you an insight into some of the best female midfielders of all time. Stay tuned to our website for more articles and information on the world of women’s soccer.
