Isa Kardinaal is a Dutch professional footballer who plays as a defender for Ajax in the Eredivisie Vrouwen. Known for her composure, tackling, and reliability, she is regarded as one of the most promising young defenders in Dutch women’s football.
Early Life and Background
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Date of Birth: 31 March 2005
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Place of Birth: Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Nationality: Dutch
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Position: Defender
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Height: 168 cm
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Shirt Number: 26
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Contract Until: 30 June 2025
Kardinaal began her youth career at FC Buitenveldert before joining Ajax’s academy, making her senior debut for Ajax on 21 November 2021.
Club Career
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Ajax (2021–present):
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Made her first-team debut in November 2021 in a home win over Excelsior Barendrecht.
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Has played 49 Eredivisie matches for Ajax as of March 2025, with consistent appearances each season
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Contributed to Ajax’s Eredivisie Women’s title in 2022/23 and KNVB Beker Women’s Cup wins in 2021/22 and 2023/24
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Featured regularly in league, cup, and UEFA Women’s Champions League matches in the 2024/25 season
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International Career
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Netherlands Youth Teams:
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Runner-up at the 2024 UEFA U19 Women’s Championship with the Netherlands U19 team3.
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Playing Profile
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Strengths:
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Strong in aerial and ground duels (68% win rate in each), high tackle accuracy (67%), and reliable in passing and build-up play
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Style:
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Modern defender, comfortable in possession, tactically aware, and effective both in defense and supporting attacks.
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Achievements & Honours
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Eredivisie Women’s Champion: 2022/23 (Ajax)
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KNVB Beker Women’s Winner: 2021/22, 2023/24 (Ajax)
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UEFA U19 Women’s Championship Runner-up: 2024 (Netherlands U19)
FAQs About Isa Kardinaal
What position does Isa Kardinaal play?
Defender
Which club does she play for?
Ajax
How old is Isa Kardinaal?
20 (born March 31, 2005)
What are her main achievements?
Eredivisie Women’s champion, KNVB Beker Women’s winner, UEFA U19 Championship runner-up
What is her playing style?
Composed, strong in duels, and reliable in both defensive and build-up phases
Conclusion
Isa Kardinaal is establishing herself as a key young defender for Ajax, contributing to domestic successes and gaining valuable international experience. Her consistent performances and development mark her as a future leader in Dutch women’s football.
