Orlando Pride has made a major signing, welcoming Mexican football star Jacqueline Ovalle to the team. Known as “La Maga” (The Magician), Ovalle is famous for her goal-scoring and amazing dribbling skills. She joins the NWSL from the Mexican club Tigres for a record transfer fee, showing that the league continues to attract top players from around the world.
Ovalle has already made an impact, providing an assist in her second game. Her arrival is a big boost for Orlando Pride, especially with fellow star Barbra Banda currently injured. Fans are excited to see how her technical style will shine in the fast-paced NWSL. This move not only strengthens the team but also highlights the growing connection between the NWSL and Mexico’s Liga MX Femenil.
🌟 A Star’s Journey to the NWSL
Jacqueline Ovalle (25) decided to move to the NWSL for a new challenge after a very successful career with Tigres in Mexico. She was a key player since the league started, becoming the club’s all-time leading scorer with 136 goals and helping them win six league titles. With her contract ending, she wanted to play in the United States or Europe. Orlando Pride’s vision and the competitive nature of the NWSL convinced her it was the right choice. She explained, “The league is so competitive—everything connected. It was a move I really wanted to make.”
💪 What Ovalle Brings to Orlando
Ovalle’s signing is a huge plus for Orlando Pride, who were going through a tough period without a win in several league games. The team has also been missing star forward Barbra Banda due to a season-ending injury. General Manager Haley Carter stated that signing Ovalle was part of a long-term plan to bring top talent to the club. Head Coach Seb Hines praised Ovalle’s versatility, noting she can score, create chances, and play on either side of the field. He said, “Bringing in a player like Jacquie with her quality is a great addition to the current roster that we have.”
⚽ Adapting to a New League
Ovalle knows that the NWSL is different from Liga MX Femenil. She described the American league as “faster, physical,” with quick transitions between defense and attack. To succeed, she plans to use her technical skills and quick thinking. “I have to be able to adjust, think quickly and be very thoughtful about what I am doing in those quick moments,” she said. By combining her talent with smart decision-making, Ovalle aims to adapt quickly and help her new team win. Her positive attitude and skill are sure to make her a fan favorite.
🏆 A Look at North America’s Summer Leagues
While the NWSL season is in full swing, several other women’s leagues in North America recently crowned their champions. In the WPSL, new team Sporting CT won the title by defeating the California Storm. The USL W League saw another new team, Utah United, win the championship against the North Carolina Courage U-23. In the UWS, Edgewater Castle FC from Chicago took home the trophy after a final match against New England Mutiny FC. These leagues are important for developing players and growing women’s football across the region.
✈️ Young Canadian Talent Moves to Europe
In other news, young Canadian player Florianne Jourde (20) has signed a three-year contract with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). After two seasons playing college soccer at the University of Southern California, she decided to turn professional in Europe. This follows a trend of talented young players from North America choosing to start their professional careers early. Jourde, an attacking midfielder, is expected to be a future star for the Canadian national team, and fans will be watching her progress at PSG.
