Did you know that the FIFA Women’s World Cup is happening this summer? Women’s soccer had a fantastic year in 2022, and we believe 2023 is going to be even better. This July, the women’s national teams are going to kick off the World Cup tournament in New Zealand, alongside their co-host Australia. For the first time ever, the tournament will feature 32 teams instead of the usual 24. As the summer closes in on us, now is the time to watch some friendly matches between nations to see what team you want to cheer for. The best players in the world are going to be there, so you better become familiar with who you’re going to see!

In no particular order here are 8 female soccer players that we think you’re going to want to keep your eye on.

 1. Alexia Putellas

Who many regard to be one of the best female soccer players of all time, the Spanish midfielder is always the focal point of every game she plays. She’s a fan favorite in league competitions and strikes fear into her opponents with her technical ability. However, Putellas is overcoming an ACL injury that caused her to miss out on last summer’s Euros. Will this affect the way she plays at the World Cup tournament? I guess we’ll have to wait and see!

2. Lauren Hemp

All eyes are going to be on England after their recent win of the 2022 Women’s Euro. Along with Leah Wiliamson, Lauren Hemp is going to play a major role if England is going to go all the way. The four-time winner of the PFA Young Player of the Year award describes herself as creative and direct. You’re going to want to watch out for the young star as she may have a few tricks up her sleeve this year!

3. Ada Hegerberg

The Norwegian striker, Ada Hegerberg, is the leading female goal scorer in UEFA history. She was the first woman to ever win the Ballon d’Or and has played a major role in Lyon’s dominance in France and Europe. Winning six Champions League titles, let’s see if she can bring home a World Cup win for Norway!

4. Sam Kerr

The leader of the host country, the 28-year-old striker has a lengthy portfolio of achievements. She has captained the Australian National team since 2019, and always finds a way to astound fans. As Australia’s all-time leading goal scorer, Kerr always finds a way to find goals, make assists, and trouble defenders!

5. Jessie Fleming

Lets take a quick moment to remember that the Canadian team took home the gold medal at the 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympics! One of the most important players the team has going into the tournament is going to be Jessie Fleming. With the ability to perform in the highest levels at major tournaments and adapt to the game, if Fleming is at her best, Canada could be a force to be reckoned with!

6. Sophia Smith

When it comes to the American team, all eyes may be on veterans Alex Morgan and Megan Rapinoe. But rising star Sophia Smith might be who you want to look out for! She’s a ruthless forward who ultimately just wants to score goals. She was the youngest player to be named MVP, and is ready to hit the international stage!

7. Wendie Renard

The French Defender is a dominant force to watch out for. Wendie Renard has proven to be a threat on the back line, and wherever else she manages to get her hands on the ball. She’s the captain of the French club Lyon, and her resume includes eight Champions League victories, nine French Cups, and 14 league titles. At 32 years old, this may be her last shot at winning a major international tournament like the World Cup!

8. Debinha

The Brazilian attacker, Debinha, has fans turning heads to watch her every move. With the ability to create something out of nothing in a tournament, her technical ability, fancy footwork, and dizzying dribbling is unlike any other player. With an elite perspective to the game, the Brazilian attacker is going to be a fun one to watch!

Now do you know who you’re going to keep an eye out for? If so, let us know in the comments, then head on over to SoccerCards.ca and treat yourself to merchandise that represents your favorite soccer player’s club or national team!