Tarciane Karen dos Santos de Lima, known simply as Tarciane, is a Brazilian central defender who has rapidly become one of the most sought-after young talents in women’s football. Renowned for her aerial dominance, composure, and goal-scoring threat from the back, she has set transfer records and earned silverware at every level, now starring for Olympique Lyonnais and the Brazil national team.
Early Life and Background
Born on May 27, 2003, in Belford Roxo, Rio de Janeiro, Tarciane began her football journey in 2015 through the “Daminhas da Bola” project, designed to nurture young female talents. Her early promise led her to Fluminense’s youth setup in 2019, where she quickly progressed to the main squad while also excelling with the under-18 team.
Club Career
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Fluminense (2019–2021):
Debuted professionally, helping the club win the Campeonato Brasileiro Sub-18 in 2020 and gaining recognition for her leadership and versatility. -
Corinthians (2021–2024):
Joined Corinthians in June 2021 and became a defensive pillar, winning three consecutive Campeonato Brasileiro Série A1 titles (2021, 2022, 2023), two Copa Libertadores Femenina crowns (2021, 2023), and multiple state and national cups. She was also named to the 2022 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A1 Team of the Year. -
Houston Dash (2024):
In April 2024, Tarciane moved to the NWSL’s Houston Dash for a record fee in Brazilian women’s football, reported around $485,000. She made 11 appearances and immediately strengthened their defense, before her high-profile move to Europe. -
Olympique Lyonnais (2025–present):
Signed by Lyon in February 2025 for a fee potentially rising to $1 million, one of the highest in women’s football history. She agreed to a four-year contract through June 2029, joining one of Europe’s most successful clubs to further her development and compete for major titles.
International Career
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Brazil Youth Teams:
Represented Brazil at U17 and U20 levels, notably scoring twice on her U20 debut and helping the U20s win the South American Under-20 Championship in 2022. -
Brazil Senior Team (2022–present):
Debuted for the senior side in October 2022 and scored her first international goal against Canada in April 2024. She played a key role in Brazil’s run to the silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics and has featured in major tournaments including the 2024 CONCACAF W Gold Cup.
Playing Style and Strengths
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Aerial Dominance: At 1.83 m (6 ft), Tarciane is a major threat in both penalty areas, excelling in aerial duels and set pieces.
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Ball Distribution: Initiates attacks with precise long-range passing and composure under pressure.
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Versatility: Primarily a central defender but comfortable across the back line.
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Leadership: Calm, mature, and decisive, often organizing her team’s defensive structure.
Career Stats (as of February 2025)
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Date of Birth: May 27, 2003
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Age: 21
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Height: 1.83 m
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Position: Centre-back
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Current Club: Olympique Lyonnais
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Previous Clubs: Fluminense, Corinthians, Houston Dash
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Corinthians Appearances: 28 (4 goals
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Houston Dash Appearances: 13 (0 goals)
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Brazil Senior Caps: 14 (1 goal, as of October 2024)
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Notable Youth International Stats: 11 caps, 8 goals for Brazil U20
Achievements and Honors
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Corinthians:
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3× Campeonato Brasileiro Série A1 Champion (2021, 2022, 2023)
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2× Copa Libertadores Femenina Winner (2021, 2023)
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Multiple state and national cups
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Brazil:
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Olympic Silver Medalist (2024)
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South American U20 Champion (2022)
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2022 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A1 Team of the Year
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Frequently Asked Questions About Tarciane
How old is Tarciane?
She is 21 years old, born on May 27, 2003.
What position does Tarciane play?
She is a central defender (centre-back) for Lyon and the Brazil national team.
What are Tarciane’s major achievements?
She has won multiple league and continental titles with Corinthians, was a record transfer for Houston Dash and Lyon, and is an Olympic silver medalist with Brazil.
What makes Tarciane stand out?
Her height, aerial ability, composure, and leadership make her one of the most promising defenders in world football.
Conclusion
Tarciane’s journey from local football in Belford Roxo to becoming a record-breaking defender at Lyon and an Olympic medalist for Brazil exemplifies her talent, determination, and the growing global stature of women’s football. Her continued rise promises even greater achievements in the years ahead.
