Catarina Macario is one of the most exciting and versatile attackers in women’s football. Renowned for her technical skill, vision, and goal-scoring instinct, she is a key figure for both Chelsea and the United States Women’s National Team (USWNT). Her journey from Brazil to the pinnacle of the sport is a story of talent, resilience, and inspiration.
Early Life and Background
Born on October 4, 1999, in São Luís, Brazil, Macario moved to the United States at age 12. She developed her game in San Diego and quickly became a standout in youth soccer, setting records and drawing national attention.
College Career
Macario attended Stanford University, where she became one of the most decorated players in NCAA history:
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Two-time NCAA Champion (2017, 2019)
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Two-time MAC Hermann Trophy winner (2018, 2019)
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Three-time Pac-12 Champion and three-time ESPNW Player of the Year
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Scored 63 goals and provided 47 assists in 68 games
Her performances made her one of the top prospects in the world.
Club Career
Olympique Lyonnais
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Signed her first professional contract with Lyon in 2021, joining one of Europe’s most successful clubs.
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Won the French league and the UEFA Women’s Champions League, contributing goals and assists in key matches.
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Known for her adaptability, she played as a midfielder, forward, and false nine.
Chelsea FC
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Joined Chelsea in 2023, bringing creativity, pace, and technical excellence to the team.
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Quickly established herself as a regular starter, linking up with top talents and helping Chelsea compete for domestic and European honors.
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Overcame a serious ACL injury that sidelined her for over a year, returning to action in 2025 and scoring on her comeback.
International Career
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Eligible for both Brazil and the United States, Macario chose to represent the USWNT.
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Made her senior debut in January 2021, becoming the first naturalized citizen to play for the USWNT.
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Scored in her first start and has since become a regular, playing as a forward, attacking midfielder, or false nine.
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Missed the 2023 World Cup due to injury but returned in 2025, scoring in her first games back.
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Seen as a key part of the USWNT’s future, especially as the team transitions to a new generation of stars.
Strengths and Playing Style
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Versatility: Can play as an attacking midfielder, forward, or false nine.
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Technical Ability: Elite ball control, dribbling, and first touch.
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Goal Scoring Instinct: Finishes with both feet, strikes from distance, and is a threat on set pieces.
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Playmaking and Vision: Creates chances for teammates with incisive passing and movement.
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Movement and Positioning: Finds pockets of space, making her hard to mark.
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Mental Strength: Overcame
