Alice Sombath is one of the brightest young defenders in European football. Renowned for her athleticism, technical skill, and versatility, she has become a regular for Olympique Lyonnais and a fixture in France’s youth national teams, with eligibility for Thailand and Belgium as well.
Early Life and Background
Born on October 16, 2003, in Val-de-Marne, France, to Thai parents, Alice Sombath grew up in the southern suburbs of Paris. Inspired by watching her older brother play, she fell in love with football at age eight and began her journey at local club CSOM Arcueil. Her family’s support, especially her football-loving father, was crucial in her early development.
Club Career
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Youth Development:
After two years at CSOM Arcueil, Sombath joined Paris FC’s academy at age 10, often playing with boys’ squads. She then progressed to Paris Saint-Germain’s renowned academy, where she won the French U19 national championship in 2019 and became a key youth player -
Olympique Lyonnais (2020–present):
In 2020, Sombath signed her first professional contract with Lyon at age 16, moving alongside teammate Vicki Becho. Despite her youth, she quickly established herself, making her Division 1 debut in the 2021/22 season and earning a Champions League medal that year. By 2023/24, she was Lyon’s first-choice right-back, featuring regularly in league and European fixtures. -
Achievements with Lyon:
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3× Division 1 Féminine Champion (2021/22, 2022/23, 2023/24)
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Coupe de France Winner (2022/23)
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Trophée des Championnes Winner (2022)
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UEFA Women’s Champions League Winner (2021/22)
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International Career
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France Youth Teams:
Sombath has represented France at every youth level from U16 to U23, winning the Montaigu Tournament with the U16s in 2019 and playing key roles in Euro U17 and U19 qualifiers. She was called up to the France senior team in 2024 for friendlies against Nigeria and Spain, creating excitement in both France and Thailand due to her dual heritage. -
Eligibility:
Though she has played for France’s youth teams, Sombath remains eligible to represent Thailand or Belgium at senior level, but has expressed pride in her Thai roots and openness to future possibilities.
Playing Style and Strengths
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Position: Right-back (also capable across the defensive line)
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Attributes:
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Strong pace and stamina, enabling up-and-down runs on the flank
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Technical skill, composure, and excellent one-on-one defending
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Comfortable in possession and effective in build-up play
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Maturity and leadership beyond her years
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Career Stats (as of May 2025)
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Date of Birth: October 16, 2003
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Age: 21
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Height: 1.65 m
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Position: Right-back
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Current Club: Olympique Lyonnais
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Lyon Appearances (2024/25): 5 starts, 6 substitute appearances
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Major Club Honors:
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3× Division 1 Féminine Champion
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UEFA Women’s Champions League Winner
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Coupe de France Winner
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Trophée des Championnes Winner
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Achievements and Honors
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Championnat National Féminin U19: 2018–19 (PSG)
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Division 1 Féminine: 2021–22, 2022–23, 2023–24 (Lyon)
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Coupe de France: 2022–23 (Lyon)
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Trophée des Championnes: 2022 (Lyon)
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UEFA Women’s Champions League: 2021–22 (Lyon)
Frequently Asked Questions About Alice Sombath
How old is Alice Sombath?
She is 21 years old, born on October 16, 2003.
What position does Alice Sombath play?
She is a right-back for Olympique Lyonnais and France’s national youth teams.
What are Alice Sombath’s major achievements?
She has won multiple French league titles, the Coupe de France, and the UEFA Women’s Champions League with Lyon.
What makes Alice Sombath stand out?
Her pace, technical skill, maturity, and ability to perform at the highest level from a young age.
Conclusion
Alice Sombath’s journey from the Paris suburbs to the summit of European football is a testament to her talent, work ethic, and multicultural pride. As she continues to develop at Lyon and on the international stage, she is set to be a key figure in women’s football for years to come.
