The upcoming 2023 Women’s World Cup will showcase some of the finest talents in women’s football, including many exceptional defenders. These top female defenders have beautifully shown their defensive prowess, leadership qualities, and ability to perform under pressure on the big stage.

They have left a great mark on the previously held tournament with their exceptional performances. Players like Li Ting from China, a stalwart of the 1999 World Cup, showed an unyielding defensive mentality and played a vital role in her team’s journey to the final. Joy Fawcett, representing the USA, displayed her defensive prowess across four World Cups, helping her team win in 1991 and 1999.

These top female defenders in the Women’s World Cup have motivated many generations of young athletes with their defensive skills, determination, and strong commitment to their teams. As the world continues to celebrate the World Cup and the game’s growth, these female defenders will forever be remembered as pioneers and role models for aspiring young athletes.

Let’s examine the top 10 female defenders playing in the 2023 Women’s World Cup.

Top Female Defenders of the Upcoming Women’s World Cup

Here are the top ten female defenders playing in the upcoming women’s World Cup who will make an incredible mark in the tournament.

Millie Bright (Chelsea)

Millie Bright, a famous English defender for Chelsea, has made significant contributions to the football world. She is known for her love of gaming and has actively engaged with fans and fellow players through her online presence.

Millie Bright started her career as a sloppy defender and gradually became one of the best defenders in the game. The last two seasons have immensely helped her develop. She also got to explore her leadership side by becoming the vice-captain of Chelsea and England.

On the football pitch, her strong defensive abilities, leadership qualities, and versatility have made her an integral part of Chelsea and the English national team, leaving a lasting impact on the game.

Position: Defender
Team/Club Name: England National Team
Birthplace: Chesterfield, Derbyshire, England
Age: 30
Rank: 8
Total Salary: $35,000+

Maria Pilar Leon (Barcelona)

Maria Pilar Leon, or Mapi Leon, is an excellent defender for Barcelona and has made outstanding contributions to the football world. Her focus and dedication on the pitch have garnered praise and recognition.

As a key player for Barcelona, Mapi has shown exceptional defensive skills, positioning, and leadership. Her contributions have been crucial to Barcelona’s domestic and international success. She’s an excellent ball-playing defender famous for her passing and great technique. With her strong presence at the backline, Maria Pilar Leon has established herself as a reliable and influential figure in women’s football.

Position: Defender
Team/Club Name: Barcelona
Birthplace: Zaragoza Spain
Age: 28
Rank: 4
Total Salary:

Leah Williamson (Arsenal)

Leah Williamson is a talented defender for Arsenal. She has immensely contributed to the world of football. Williamson’s technical proficiency, composure, and versatility have made her a key player.
She has shown exceptional defensive skills and the ability to distribute the ball effectively from the backline.

Her dedication and commitment to the game have solidified her place as a valuable asset in women’s football. She will be participating in the Women’s World Cup 2023.

Position: Defender
Team/Club Name: Arsenal
Birthplace: Milton Keynes, England
Age: 26
Rank: 6
Total Salary:

Irene Paredes (Barcelona)

Irene Paredes is an accomplished defender for Barcelona. She has exhibited exceptional defensive skills, aerial prowess, and strong leadership qualities throughout her career.

As a key player for both Barcelona and the Spanish national team, she has played a vital role in their successes, including domestic titles and international tournaments.

Irene Paredes’ defensive insight and ability to read the game have made her a formidable presence in women’s football, earning her recognition and respect from fans and peers alike.

Position: Defender
Team/Club Name: Barcelona
Birthplace: Legazpi, Spain
Age: 31
Rank: 2
Total Salary:

Lucy Bronze (Barcelona)

Lucy Bronze is a famous footballer who has played for the biggest football clubs in women’s football. At present, she is playing for FC Barcelona femenina and has previously won the Spanish La Liga in her first season.

She also helped win WSL titles with Manchester City, league titles in France with Lyon, and the UEFA Women’s Champions League.

Lucy Bronze’s exceptional defensive skills, athleticism, and attacking prowess have made her one of the best right-backs in the women’s game. She will be participating in the upcoming 2023 Women’s World Cup.

Position: Defender
Team/Club Name: Barcelona
Birthplace: Berwick-upon-Tweed, England
Age: 31
Rank: 15
Total Salary:

Griedge Mbock Bathy (Lyon)

Griedge Mbock Bathy is a talented defender for Lyon who has made notable contributions to the football world. Her defensive prowess, physicality, and exceptional aerial ability are vital to Lyon’s success. Griedge Mbock Bathy has been instrumental in helping Lyon secure multiple domestic and international titles. She has also helped France to the Women’s Euros 2022 semifinals. It was the furthest France had gone in the competition’s history.

Position: Defender
Team/Club Name: Lyon
Birthplace: Brest, France
Age: 28
Rank: 29
Total Salary:

Sofia Huerta (OL Reign)

Sofia Huerta is playing for Olympique Reign in the USA. She is one of the best women’s soccer leagues in the world. She has played for both Mexico and US national teams. She had made a notable contribution in making OL Reign achieve second place in NWSL and a semifinal finish in the playoffs. Her dedication to football and gaming has inspired a new generation of athletes, fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie. Sofia Huerta’s contributions extend beyond the pitch, solidifying her status as a true trailblazer in the Women’s World Cup 2023.

Position: Defender
Team/Club Name: OL Reign
Birthplace: Boise, Idaho, United States
Age: 30
Rank: 11
Total Salary:

Alex Greenwood (Manchester City)

Alex Greenwood has established herself as a prominent figure in the game. Alongside her excellent football career, she has embraced the gaming world, showcasing her passion for esports. She can play as a left-back and left-center-back in the defense. She is a left-footed defender in the England team that emerged third at the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Alex Greenwood was also a part of the team that won the UEFA Women’s Euro Championship last summer. With her engaging personality, she has uniquely connected with fans, promoting inclusivity and fostering a sense of camaraderie among enthusiasts.

Position: Defender
Team/Club Name: Manchester City
Birthplace: Liverpool, England
Age: 29
Rank: 5
Total Salary:

Kadeisha Buchanan (Chelsea)

Kadeisha Buchanan is a powerhouse in women’s football. She won the youngest player award at the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Canada in 2015. She was a part of the Canadian team that won the gold medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

With her commanding presence as a defender, Kadeisha Buchanan has showcased her skills and contributed significantly to the football world.

Position: Defender
Team/Club Name: Chelsea
Birthplace: Toronto, Canada
Age: 27
Rank: 26
Total Salary:

Also Read: Top 10 Best Female GoalKeepers In The Fifa World Cup 2023

Wendie Renard (Lyon)

Wendie Renard is the most popular defender in women’s football. She has gained prominence as the defender with the most UEFA Champions League trophy, with eight titles with French club side Lyon. She is also one of the highest-paid women’s soccer players.

She is a leader in the French women’s national team and Lyon. She will be playing in the 2023 Women’s World Cup. Playing for Olympique Lyonnais (Lyon), she has amassed an impressive trophy cabinet, showcasing her exceptional skills and leadership abilities.

Wendie Renard’s towering height and aerial prowess make her a formidable force in both defensive and offensive situations.

Position: Defender
Team/Club Name: Lyon
Birthplace: Schœlcher, Martinique, France
Age: 32
Rank: 3
Total Salary:

Wrapping It Up

These top female defenders will participate in the upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 in Australia and New Zealand. As the competition expands to include 32 teams, new talents will emerge on the global stage, captivating football enthusiasts worldwide. These rising stars bring a fresh energy and skillset, contributing to the ever-evolving landscape of the sport. It’s a thrilling time for football enthusiasts as they witness the emergence of these promising talents.