Athenea del Castillo Beivide, known simply as Athenea, is a Spanish footballer celebrated for her dribbling, verticality, and attacking flair. As a key winger for Real Madrid and the Spain national team, she is recognized as one of the most exciting talents in women’s football and a crucial figure in Spain’s 2023 World Cup triumph.
Early Life and Football Beginnings
Born on October 24, 2000, in Solares, Spain, Athenea began her football journey at age 11 with Reocín in Cantabria. She later moved to Ave Fénix Racing, where she scored 37 goals in 46 games and experienced a club merger that led to the formation of Racing Féminas.
Club Career: From Racing Féminas to Real Madrid
Athenea’s senior career started with Racing Féminas, where her prolific scoring (37 goals in 46 matches) quickly drew attention. In 2019, she joined Deportivo Abanca in Spain’s top division, making an immediate impact with 11 goals in 49 league appearances and helping the team finish fourth in their debut season.
Following Deportivo’s relegation in 2021, Athenea signed for Real Madrid. She debuted in the UEFA Women’s Champions League against Manchester City and was soon recognized as one of Madrid’s best performers, scoring her first goal against Villarreal. Known for her dominant dribbling and ability to break defensive lines, she has become a fan favorite and a regular starter.
As of December 2024, Athenea has made 97 league appearances and scored 20 goals for Real Madrid, with a total of 141 appearances and 28 goals across all competitions for the club.
International Career: World Cup Winner with Spain
Athenea has represented Spain at every youth level, winning the UEFA U19 European Championship in 2018 and finishing runner-up in 2019. She made her senior debut in 2020 and quickly became a regular, known for her impact off the bench and as a starter.
She played a key role in Spain’s 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup campaign, making several appearances and helping Spain lift their first-ever World Cup. Athenea has earned over 50 caps and scored more than a dozen goals for the senior national team, including crucial goals in World Cup qualifiers and major tournaments.
Career Milestones & Special Achievements
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UEFA U19 European Champion (2018) and runner-up (2019)
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Senior debut for Spain at age 19
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FIFA Women’s World Cup winner (2023)
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Over 50 caps and 13+ goals for Spain
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More than 140 appearances and 28 goals for Real Madrid (all competitions as of Dec 2024)
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Liga F winger with the most successful dribbles (2022)
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Real Madrid Player of the Month (September 2021)
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Consistently among the league’s most effective attackers
Athenea is praised for her dribbling, directness, and ability to change games with her pace and creativity.
Style of Play
Athenea is a dynamic winger known for her verticality, technical skill, and fearless one-on-one ability. She excels at taking on defenders, delivering dangerous crosses, and scoring from wide positions. Her relentless work rate and flair make her indispensable for both club and country.
Endorsements, Salary, and Earnings
As a World Cup winner and Real Madrid star, Athenea commands a top salary in Liga F and is a sought-after figure for endorsements in Spain and internationally.
Personal Life
Off the pitch, Athenea is admired for her humility, professionalism, and commitment to continuous improvement. She is a role model for young footballers in Cantabria and across Spain.
FAQs About Athenea del Castillo
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What position does Athenea play?
She is primarily a winger but can also play as a forward. -
Which clubs has Athenea played for?
Racing Féminas, Deportivo Abanca, and Real Madrid. -
What are Athenea’s top achievements?
FIFA Women’s World Cup winner, UEFA U19 European Champion, Real Madrid regular. -
How many appearances and goals for Real Madrid?
97 league appearances and 20 goals; 141 total appearances and 28 goals (as of Dec 2024). -
How many goals for Spain?
Over 13 goals in more than 50 caps.
Conclusion
Athenea del Castillo’s rise from Cantabria’s youth football to Real Madrid and World Cup glory with Spain highlights her exceptional talent, determination, and flair. As she continues to shine, Athenea stands out as one of the most electrifying and influential wingers in women’s football.
