Laura Benkarth is a German goalkeeper renowned for her consistency, shot-stopping, and composure under pressure. With a career spanning top clubs in Germany and France, she has been a dependable presence for both club and country, contributing to major titles and representing Germany at the highest level.
Early Life and Background
Born on October 14, 1992, in Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany, Benkarth began her football journey at a young age and quickly rose through the ranks of German youth football. Her early promise as a goalkeeper set the stage for a successful professional and international career.
Club Career
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SC Freiburg: Benkarth started her senior career at Freiburg, where she established herself as a first-choice goalkeeper and gained valuable experience in the Frauen-Bundesliga.
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Bayern Munich (2018–2023): Joined Bayern Munich, winning the Frauen-Bundesliga title twice (2020–21, 2022–23). She was a key part of the squad, regularly featuring in league and Champions League matches.
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Lyon (2023–present): Moved to Olympique Lyonnais, one of Europe’s most successful women’s clubs. As of the 2024–25 season, she has continued to showcase her reliability and technical quality, contributing to Lyon’s domestic and European campaigns.
International Career
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Youth Success: Benkarth was part of the Germany U-17 squad that won the 2009 UEFA Women’s U-17 Championship and the U-20 team that won the 2010 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup. She gained international acclaim at the 2012 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, playing every minute and not conceding a single goal until the final, where Germany finished runners-up. For her performances, she was awarded the Golden Glove as the tournament’s best goalkeeper.
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Senior Team: First called up to the senior national team in 2012, she has since earned 11 caps for Germany as of September 2021. Benkarth was part of the squads that won the UEFA Women’s Euro 2013 and the gold medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics, serving as a reliable backup and team player during Germany’s golden era.
Playing Style and Strengths
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Shot-Stopping: Known for her quick reflexes and excellent positioning, making her a tough opponent for strikers.
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Composure: Calm under pressure, with a strong command of her penalty area.
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Distribution: Accurate with her feet and hands, often starting attacks from the back.
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Leadership: Brings experience and stability to her teams, both at club and international level.
Career Stats (as of 2025)
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Date of Birth: October 14, 1992
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Age: 32
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Height: 1.73 m
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Position: Goalkeeper
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Current Club: Olympique Lyonnais
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Previous Clubs: SC Freiburg, Bayern Munich
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Lyon Appearances (2023–25): 22 league matches (approximate)
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Germany Senior Caps: 11
Achievements and Honors
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Club:
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Frauen-Bundesliga Champion (2020–21, 2022–23, Bayern Munich)
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UEFA Women’s Champions League campaigns with Bayern and Lyon
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International:
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UEFA Women’s Euro Champion (2013, Germany)
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Olympic Gold Medalist (2016, Germany)
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FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Winner (2010)
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UEFA U-17 Women’s Championship Winner (2009)
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Individual:
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FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Golden Glove (2012)
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Frequently Asked Questions About Laura Benkarth
How old is Laura Benkarth?
She is 32 years old, born on October 14, 1992.
What position does Laura Benkarth play?
She is a goalkeeper for Lyon and the German national team.
What are Laura Benkarth’s major achievements?
She has won multiple league titles, a UEFA Euro, an Olympic gold medal, and was named best goalkeeper at the 2012 U-20 World Cup.
What makes Laura Benkarth stand out?
Her consistency, composure, shot-stopping ability, and experience at the highest levels of club and international football.
Conclusion
Laura Benkarth’s career is a testament to her skill, professionalism, and resilience. As a proven winner for club and country, she remains a respected figure in women’s football and a role model for aspiring goalkeepers.
