The FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, hosted by Australia and New Zealand, is set to kick off on July 20. As the tournament approaches, football fans around the world are eagerly awaiting the emergence of promising young talents. Over the years, the World Cup has provided a platform for many stars to showcase their skills and catapult their careers to new heights. This edition is expected to be no different, with several talented youngsters expected to make their mark on the global stage.
One such player to watch out for is Salma Paralluelo, a Spanish left-winger who currently plays for FC Barcelona in Liga F. The 19-year-old had a stellar debut season with the club, scoring 10 goals in 15 games. She was also a key member of the Spanish side that won the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in 2018 and the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in 2022. With her impressive performances, Paralluelo is poised to continue her winning streak in the upcoming World Cup.
Another young talent to keep an eye on is Lauren Hemp, a 22-year-old forward from England. Hemp played a crucial role in helping England secure their first major football trophy in over five decades when they won the UEFA Women’s Euros 2022. Her contributions, including a crucial assist, played a significant role in the team’s success. She currently plays for Manchester City and has scored an impressive 52 goals in all formats. With her exceptional performances, Hemp is expected to continue her winning ways at the 2023 World Cup.
Linda Caicedo, a 14-year-old prodigy from Colombia, is also set to make a name for herself in the upcoming tournament. Caicedo finished as the top scorer in her debut season at the Colombian football league, helping her team clinch their first domestic title in 2019. She currently plays for Real Madrid and was awarded the Golden Ball at the 2022 Copa America Femenina, despite Colombia finishing as the runner-up. With her immense talent and potential, Caicedo is expected to shine on the global stage.
Sophia Smith, an American forward who plays for Portland Thorns FC in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) and the United States national team, is another young player to watch out for. Smith has had a remarkable year, winning the U.S. Soccer Female Player of the Year award and the NWSL Most Valuable Player award in 2022. She was instrumental in leading Portland to their third league title and has scored 11 goals for the U.S. in 2022 alone. With her impressive goal-scoring ability, Smith is expected to play a crucial role for the U.S. team as they aim to secure their third consecutive Women’s World Cup title.
Jun Endo, a 23-year-old forward from Japan, is also set to make her mark on the global stage. Endo plays for NWSL club Angel City FC and the Japan women’s national team. Though she has had limited international playing time in recent years, Endo has shown her talent by scoring three goals and providing three assists from 17 chances. She was part of the Japanese team that won the U-20 World Cup in 2018 and will be looking to contribute to her country’s senior team in the upcoming World Cup.
As the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 approaches, football fans can expect to witness the emergence of these talented young players. Their performances on the global stage have the potential to inspire a new generation of players and pave the way for greater inclusivity and growth in women’s football. With their skills, determination, and passion for the game, these promising youngsters are set to captivate audiences and make a lasting impact on the world of football.
