Eva Julianna Gaetino is an American professional footballer known for her defensive intelligence, aerial ability, and leadership. She plays as a center back for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in France’s Division 1 Féminine, wearing number 19, and has debuted for the United States women’s national team.
Early Life and Background
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Date of Birth: December 17, 2002
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Place of Birth: Chesapeake, Virginia, USA
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Height: 1.80 m (5 ft 11 in)
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Grew Up: Dexter, Michigan
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Family: Comes from a soccer family—her mother played for Virginia Tech, her father for Bucknell, and her sister Bella for North Carolina.
College Career
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Notre Dame Fighting Irish (2020–2023):
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Four-year starter, 76 appearances, 6 goals
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Two-time First Team All-American
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Two-time ACC Defensive Player of the Year (2022, 2023)
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ACC Scholar-Athlete of the Year
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Anchored a defense with 20 shutouts in her final two seasons
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Mac Hermann Trophy semifinalist as a senior
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Club Career
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Paris Saint-Germain (2024–present):
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Signed in January 2024, forgoing the NWSL Draft
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Debuted on February 11, 2024, and assisted in her first match
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Scored her first professional goal in the UEFA Women’s Champions League quarterfinals, becoming the youngest American to score in the competition’s knockout rounds
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21 league appearances for PSG as of January 2025
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Helped PSG win the Coupe de France Féminine (2023–24) and finish runners-up in Division 1 Féminine and the Champions League semifinals
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International Career
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United States U-23: Played friendlies in 2023
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USWNT Senior Team:
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First call-up in April 2024 for the SheBelieves Cup
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Senior debut on October 30, 2024, in a 3–0 win over Argentina
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Playing Profile
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Position: Center back
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Strengths: Aerial duels, positioning, leadership, composure, and ability to play out from the back
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Style: Tall, athletic, and calm under pressure; transitioned from forward to defender in her youth
Honours & Achievements
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Club:
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Coupe de France Féminine: 2023–24 (PSG)
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Individual:
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Two-time ACC Defensive Player of the Year
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First Team All-American (twice)
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ACC Scholar-Athlete of the Year
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FAQs About Eva Gaetino
What position does Eva Gaetino play?
Center back.
Which number does she wear for PSG?
19.
How old is Eva Gaetino?
22 (born December 17, 2002).
What are her main achievements?
Coupe de France winner with PSG, two-time ACC Defensive Player of the Year, USWNT senior debut, and youngest American to score in the Champions League knockout rounds.
What is her playing style?
Tall, strong in the air, composed, and a leader in defense.
Conclusion
Eva Gaetino’s rapid rise from Notre Dame to PSG and the USWNT highlights her as one of the most promising young defenders in women’s football. Her achievements at both collegiate and professional levels, combined with her international debut, mark her as a player to watch for the future.
