The countdown to the 2024 Paris Olympics has officially begun, and the first kickoff is July 25th. It is important to acknowledge the young and impressive talent that unites us globally. The importance lies in the opportunities young girls have been exposed to in their nations that seem night and day compared to where women’s soccer was a decade ago. Here are some of the youngest players who will be participating in the Olympics.
1. Jaedyn Shaw
Jaedyn Shaw is a 19-year-old forward and attacking midfielder playing for the USWNT in the Olympics. In 2022, Shaw entered the NWSL and signed for the San Diego Wave. Since then, she has played her first international game with the USWNT in 2023. Her addition to the roster comes from her hard work these past months training with the USWNT and her phenomenal performance during the 2024 SheBelieves Cup.
2. Linda Caicedo
Caicedo is a 19-year-old Colombian national team player. She is often regarded as one of the world’s best young players. She has received accolades, including the Golden Ball at the 2022 Copa América Femenina and the Bronze Boot and Silver Ball at the 2022 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. Caicedo is also currently a forward for Real Madrid. Her top speed and intelligence on the ball make her success visible, and her praise is earned.
3. Pricila Flor da Silva
Pricila is a forward for the Brazil women’s national team at just 19 years old. She began playing with the senior team in November 2023 and has since been a valuable asset to the team.
4. Toko Koga
Koga is a Japanese defender who plays for the Japanese national team. She currently plays in the Dutch league, Eredivisie, for Feyenoord. Her first appearance with the senior team was in 2023, and she has since played four games with them.
5. Milly Clegg
Clegg is an 18-year-old forward for the New Zealand national team. She is also a player for the NWSL team, Racing Louisville. Clegg debuted for the senior team during the June 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Since then, Clegg has been noticed for her goalscoring threats and her consistency on the roster.
6. Momoko Tanikawa
Tanikawa is a 19-year-old midfielder for the Japanese women’s national team. In 2024, She played on loan for Bayern Munich and FC Rosengard. She has had a considerable amount of professional experience, and 2024 has proven to be the beginning of her senior team debut, with three appearances already.
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