The Top Goalkeepers in Women's Soccer

Bill Reno July 1, 2025

The 2025 Euro is seeing some of the best goalkeepers in the world battling out for the claim of “best in the world”. Next year is jam-packed with international soccer and, hopefully, a slew of great saves and top-notch goalkeeping performances.

Goalkeepers are rated on their form with club and country, taking into account their success in shot-stopping, distribution, cross management, and ability to improv on a broken play. For past rankings, click here to see the annual list of top 50 goalkeepers dating back to 2016.

Last updated July 1, 2025

Ann-Katrin Berger, a 34-year-old goalkeeper from Göppingen, Germany, has had a remarkable career in women's soccer. She began playing professionally with VfL Sindelfingen in the German second division before moving to Turbine Potsdam in 2011, where she won the Frauen-Bundesliga title in her debut season. Berger's career took her to Paris Saint-Germain in 2014, and she later joined Chelsea FC in 2019, where she solidified her reputation as one of the best goalkeepers in the world. An interesting fact about Berger is that she was the first goalkeeper to record a clean sheet in a UEFA Women's Champions League final, achieving this feat against Atlético Madrid in 2021. After overcoming a thyroid cancer diagnosis in 2017, she made a triumphant return to the pitch, showcasing her resilience and skill. Berger's ability to make crucial saves in high-pressure situations has earned her legendary status at Chelsea FC Women.

Kailen Sheridan has been a cornerstone for San Diego Wave FC, leading them to the 2024 NWSL Challenge Cup with a shutout against Gotham FC. Her journey from Clemson University, where she notched 28 shutouts, to Olympic gold with Canada at Tokyo 2020 showcases her knack for big moments. In 2022, she clinched the NWSL Goalkeeper of the Year title, and her 89 saves in 2024 cemented her as one of the league’s elite. At 30, she’s a vocal leader for both the Wave, pushing for a deep playoff run in 2025, as well as the Canadian Women’s National Team.

After being a Virginia Tech standout, McGlynn has been a key piece for the Utah Royals since joining the team in 2023, bringing grit and reliability to their backline. Her college career was legendary, setting a Hokies record with 33 shutouts and earning All-ACC honors, which paved the way for her pro debut with Sky Blue FC in 2019. In 2024, McGlynn joined the Royals and held down the starting spot for the entirity of the year, being a crucial part to their playoff push that season. At 27, her steady hands and vocal leadership make her a vital asset and a strong prospect for the number one jersey with the USWNT.

Angelina Anderson, the towering 6-foot goalkeeper for Angel City FC, has been turning heads in the NWSL with her commanding presence and sharp reflexes. Hailing from Danville, California, she made history as the first rookie goalkeeper to play in the NWSL playoffs since 2013, stepping up big in Angel City’s 2023 postseason run. Her college career at UC Berkeley was stellar, where she racked up 26 shutouts, landing her second on Cal’s all-time list, and earned Pac-12 Goalkeeper of the Year as a freshman. After originally captaining the U.S. U-17 Women’s National Team at the 2018 World Cup in Uruguay, she returned with the senior team in 2025 after locking down the starting spot with Angel City.

Aubrey Kingsbury, the Washington Spirit’s rock-solid goalkeeper, has been a defensive cornerstone since joining the NWSL in 2018, helping secure the team’s 2021 championship. A standout at Wake Forest University, she earned All-ACC honors and led the Demon Deacons to multiple NCAA tournament appearances. Since becoming the Spirit’s starter, she’s helped anchor one of the league’s stingiest defenses in the league, ultimately leading to her receiving the captain’s band for the team. At 33, her consistent performances, including a USWNT call-up in 2023, show she’s still at the top of her game. Kingsbury’s focus now is driving the Spirit deep into the 2025 playoffs.

Pauline Peyraud-Magnin has been a force for Juventus in Serie A, anchoring their backline to three straight league titles since joining in 2021. Her career spans stints at Lyon, Arsenal, and Atlético Madrid, where she honed her craft against Europe’s best. Her clean sheet in the 2021 UEFA Women’s Champions League final against Atlético Madrid was a career highlight. The fan-favorite with Italian fans, she’s translated club success into becoming the starter for the French national team. At 33, her commanding presence and quick reflexes keep her in the conversation for France’s No. 1 spot. She’s eyeing a deep run in the 2026 Euros with Les Bleues.

Jordan Silkowitz, Bay FC’s rising star, has become a fan favorite in San Jose, starting 20 matches in 2025 and posting four clean sheets to help her expansion team stay competitive. Traded from Kansas City Current in 2024, she’s shown poise beyond her 25 years. Her U.S. U-23 call-up for 2025 friendlies in Germany underscores her growing reputation, as well as an expected call-up for the USWNT to be coming soon enough. Silkowitz’s quick distribution and fearless one-on-one defending make her a modern goalkeeper to watch. She’s hungry to lock down Bay FC’s starting role for good.

Claudia Dickey, the 25-year-old Seattle Reign FC goalkeeper, has emerged as one of the NWSL’s top shot-stoppers, anchoring a defense that’s conceded the second-fewest goals in the league in 2025. Drafted 20th overall in 2022, she bided her time as a backup before seizing the starting role in August 2023, posting three clean sheets in nine matches this season and earning a spot on the NWSL Best XI for May. Fun fact: she was a two-sport star at North Carolina, playing basketball alongside soccer, which sharpened her reflexes and court presence. Her standout performances led to a contract extension through 2028 and a USWNT debut in June 2025, where she kept a clean sheet against Ireland. Dickey’s rise signals she’s a cornerstone for both club and country as she eyes the 2027 World Cup.

Cecilie Fiskerstrand, Norway’s rock-solid goalkeeper, has been a standout for Fiorentina in Italy’s Serie A, bringing her commanding presence to the club since joining in 2023. She made waves at the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup, helping Norway compete against top teams like France, and has since earned 50 caps by age 29. In 2024, she started 22 matches for Fiorentina, posting nine clean sheets and helping the team secure a top-four finish. Despite a tough 2025 loss to France at Ullevaal, her quick reflexes kept Norway in the game. She’s now focused on leading Fiorentina to a Champions League spot and pushing Norway toward the 2025 Euros.

Phallon Tullis-Joyce, a Long Island native, has carved out an impressive career, evolving from a college standout at the University of Miami to Manchester United’s No. 1 goalkeeper in the Women’s Super League. After going undrafted in the 2019 NWSL College Draft, she took a bold leap to France, captaining Stade de Reims to promotion from Division 2 and earning a reputation for fearlessness in net. Back in the U.S., she became a cornerstone for OL Reign in 2022, starting all 30 matches and helping secure the NWSL Shield. Her stellar 2024-25 season with Manchester United, where she led the WSL with 13 clean sheets in 19 games, earned her a USWNT debut in April 2025, where she shut out Brazil. At 28, she’s a top contender to replace Alyssa Naeher as the USWNT’s go-to goalkeeper.

Best of the Rest
rk. name - club, nationality (age)

11. Jane Campbell - Houston Dash, USA (30)
12. Bella Bixby - Portland Thorns FC, USA (29)
13. Sofia Manner - AFC Toronto, Finland (27)
14. Lize Kop - Tottenham, Netherlands (27)
15. Alyssa Naeher - Chicago Stars, USA (37)
16. Emily Alvarado - Tijuana, Mexico (27)
17. Didi Haracic - San Diego Wave, Bosnia and Herzegovina (33)
18. Laura Giuliani - AC Milan, Italy (32)
19. Merle Frohms - Wolfsburg, Germany (30)
20. Ayaka Yamashita - Manchester City, Japan (29)

21. Casey Murphy - North Carolina Courage, USA (29)
22. Lorena - Kansas City Current, Brazil (28)
23. Jordyn Bloomer - Racing Louisville, USA (27)
24. Sabrina D'Angelo - Aston Villa, Canada (32)
25. Daphne Van Domselaar - Arsenal, Netherlands (25)
26. Hillary Beall - San Diego Wave, USA (26)
27. Anna Tamminen - Hammarby, Finland (30)
28. Christiane Endler - Lyon, Chile (34)
29. Esther Sullastres - Sevilla, Spain (32)
30. Courtney Brosnan - Everton, Ireland (29)

31. Laurel Ivory - Kansas City Current, USA (25)
32. Sandra Paños - America, Spain (32)
33. Vanessa Fischer - Turbine Potsdam, Germany (28)
34. Adrianna Franch - Birmingham City, USA (34)
35. Mary Earps - PSG, England (32)
36. Martina Tufekovic - Hoffenheim, Croatia (31)
37. Cassie Miller - Seattle Reign, USA (30)
38. Katie Lund - Racing Louisville, USA (28)
39. Samantha Murphy - Carolina Ascent, USA (28)
40. Misa Rodriguez - Real Madrid, Spain (26)

41. Shelby Hogan - Gotham FC, USA (27)
42. Jennifer Falk - Häcken, Sweden (32)
43. Zecira Musovic - Chelsea, Sweden (29)
44. Jalen Tompkins - Brondby, USA (28)
45. Stina Johannes - Eintracht Frankfurt, Germany (25)
46. Bridgette Skiba - Lexington SC, USA (25)
47. Janina Leitzig - Leicester City, Germany (26)
48. Sydney Schneider - Tampa Bay Sun FC, Jamaica (25)
49. Rylee Foster - Durham, Canada (26)
50. Ellie Roebuck - Barcelona, England (25)

Scouting Potential Foreign Goalkeepers for MLS (2024)

Bill Reno January 20, 2024

Following the previous report on potential signings for MLS, Everybody Soccer returns with another scouting report on possible foreign goalkeepers for MLS teams. The US’s top league has finally started to explore more avenues when it comes to buying and selling players, both domestic and foreign.

Eligible goalkeepers were limited to (1) being at least 21 years old, (2) listed as having less than a $1,250,000 market value by Transfermarkt, and (3) ones that would have the highest possibility of being re-sold by an MLS team. Additionally, information on their current club situation is provided beneath each picture, along with a brief bio about their play style and potential move to MLS.

Vitezslav Jaros (22) - Liverpool

Club: Liverpool (England.1)
(on loan with Sturm Graz, Austria.1)

Reported end of contract: June 30, 2024

Transfermarkt value: $317,000

Nationality: Czech Republic

The Czech youth international left Liverpool earlier this month on a recently loan out to Sturm Graz in Austria. With Alisson and Caoimhin Kelleher’s rise to success, Jaros has been left out in the cold and will likely be exploring new options when his contract reportedly runs out this summer. The lanky yet explosive young goalkeeper was previously getting a push within Liverpool and the current plateau is something he won’t want to let define him. Last summer, Jaros led Czech Republic’s U21s over Germany in a 2-1 win during the U-21 Euro, including a fantastic late-time save on a free kick.

Luca Philipp (23) - Hoffenheim

Club: Hoffenheim (Germany.1)

Reported end of contract: June 30, 2024

Transfermarkt value: $380,000

Nationality: Germany

After a decade with Hoffenheim, the former German U21 starter has still yet to be given a pathway forward. Philipp has been given a handful of starts over the last couple years but has seemingly dropped below 20-year-old teammate Nahuel Noll in terms of investment from the club. Philipp is long overdue a fresh start and given a consistent stream of games and MLS would match nicely with the German-style of goalkeeping: hyper-efficient and powerful shot-stopping with a modern tactical approach.

Markus Schubert (25) - Vitesse

Club: Vitesse (Netherlands.1)

Reported end of contract: June 30, 2024

Transfermarkt value: $380,000

Nationality: Germany

After a hapless couple years with FC Schalke, Schubert moved north for Vitesse on a free transfer. Schubert has helped the Dutch club progress in the KNVB Cup with back-to-back-to-back 1-0 wins, with the most recent victory coming earlier this week against AFC. Schubert has advanced Vitesse to the quarterfinals and could draw some attention but it’s unlikely it’ll be enough to raise his stock much higher than it already is. If Vitesse doesn’t have a pathway forward to him, MLS teams could utilize the former German YNT goalkeeper for a year or two.

Lennart Grill (25) - Union Berlin

Club: Union Berlin (Germany.1)
(on loan with VfL Osnabrück, Germany.2)

Reported end of contract: June 30, 2024

Transfermarkt value: $1,014,000

Nationality: Germany

Currently on loan with VfL Osnabrück, Grill has been cutting his teeth on one of the worst clubs in the German second division. Although Union Berlin may be able to see through the team’s failures for Grill’s individual efforts and higher ceiling, it’s likely he’ll get labeled as a relegated goalkeeper after this season, barring a mircle from VfL Osnabrück. And with both Frederik Rönnow and Alexander Schwolow back home at Union Berlin, there’s a decent chance Grill will be looking for a new home for the 2024-25 season.

Viljami Sinisalo (22) - Aston Villa

Club: Aston Villa (England.1)
(currently on loan to Exter City, England.3)

Reported end of contract: May 31, 2024

Transfermarkt value: $760,000

Nationality: Finland

Already with two caps to his name, the Finnish international finds himself in England’s third division after being sent out of loan from to Aston Villa. Unfortuantely for Sinisalo, Exter City are just earshot out of the relegation zone. Each match feels like a dogfight for Sinisalo, if not a one-sided stomp. Aston Villa will most certainly continue to run with Emi Martinez for another few years while Sinisalo will be chomping at the bit for serious minutes in a serious league. MLS has been a good home for many Finnish players - most notably Teemu Pukki - and could do wonders for Sinisalo’s next step.

Phillip Menzel (25) - A. Klagenfurt

Club: A. Klagenfurt (Austria.1)

Reported end of contract: June 30, 2024

Transfermarkt value: $887,000

Nationality: Germany

After a limited run with Wolfsburg, Menzel joined Austria Klagenfurt ahead of the 2020-21 season. Since then, Menzel has shown well in a league that is more about “keeping the ball out of the net” than playing on a field that allows for a smooth rolling of the ball. The grittiness of Austria’s Bundesliga has worked well for Menzel, earning over 100 appearances for the club and helping Klagenfurt earn promotion into the first division after his first season with the club. Klagenfurt now sits 5th overall, thanks largely to Menzel’s efforts. Not to take anything away from Menzel’s distribution skills but for MLS teams that are more focused on shot stopping, Menzel would be a great addition to their goalkeeping core, before potentially selling him back to the German Bundesliga.

Joan García (22) - Espanyol

Club: Espanyol (Spain.2)

Reported end of contract: June 30, 2028

Transfermarkt value: $507,000

Nationality: Spain

Admittedly, García’s contract situation will likely complicate a potential move. However, for a club that has gotten little to no use out of the former Spanish youth international (only seven appearances in the past twelve months), they may entertain a fair offer for the rarely seen goalkeeper. A few MLS teams are trying to possess more and although García is a fine shot-stopper in his own right, he could be the missing piece for those that want their goalkeeper to do more than just smash goal kicks downfield.

João Virgínia (24) - Everton

Club: Everton (England.1)

Reported end of contract: June 30, 2025

Transfermarkt value: $1,014,000

Nationality: Portugal

Virgínia first joined Everton in 2019 but it’s been a bumpy and winding road thus far. At just 24 years old, Virgínia has already completed his third loan (going to Reading, Sporting CP, and now SC Cambuur) while still barely featuring for Everton. At this point, Virgínia has made more appearances for Portuguese youth national teams than with Everton or their U23s and there doesn’t seem to be any plan for him to take over for Pickford (29 years old) any time soon. Everton may want to see what they can squeeze out of Virgínia at the end of the day - he admittedly played well in the FA Cup replay against Palace - but there’s a high likelihood that he walks for free in the end.

Top 200 European Club Elo Ratings

Bill Reno December 1, 2023

cover photo belongs to Getty Images

W-T-L records are tallied from the last two years of league matches and Champions League play while the Elo rating is accumulated from games starting in 2015.

The last three columns count how many times a team played against a team in the top 50, 150, or 200 over the last two years, with the “6mo elo change” detailing the club’s rise and fall in the past six months.

Graphs of past team performances can be made available at request. An example can be found here.

This rating system has been discontinued in favor of Opta’s release.

Last updated December 1, 2023

  
    


    Rank
    Club
    Rating
    Country
    W-T-L
    ppg
    vs. top50
    vs. top100
    vs. top200
    6m elo change
  


    1
    Barcelona
    2160
    Spain
    75-2-4
    2.80
    30
    48
    80
    +53
  

    2
    Lyon
    2127
    France
    55-4-4
    2.68
    34
    50
    61
    +41
  

    3
    Bayern München
    1995
    Germany
    47-9-5
    2.46
    43
    60
    61
    -62
  

    4
    Chelsea
    1907
    England
    43-8-7
    2.36
    37
    55
    56
    -76
  

    5
    Arsenal
    1866
    England
    39-9-12
    2.10
    39
    55
    58
    +48
  

    6
    Wolfsburg
    1837
    Germany
    47-8-8
    2.37
    44
    60
    62
    -101
  

    7
    Häcken
    1825
    Sweden
    39-12-10
    2.11
    41
    60
    61
    +6
  

    8
    SL Benfica
    1777
    Portugal
    53-1-9
    2.54
    23
    34
    55
    -28
  

    9
    PSG
    1770
    France
    42-11-11
    2.14
    35
    47
    62
    -47
  

    10
    Manchester City
    1755
    England
    31-3-9
    2.23
    24
    40
    43
    +19
  

    11
    Paris
    1739
    France
    33-12-9
    2.06
    26
    40
    52
    +144
  

    12
    Eintracht Frankfurt
    1737
    Germany
    35-7-11
    2.11
    33
    50
    52
    -67
  

    13
    Hammarby
    1721
    Sweden
    33-8-11
    2.06
    32
    51
    52
    +80
  

    14
    Roma
    1713
    Italy
    53-6-7
    2.50
    20
    37
    54
    +116
  

    15
    Manchester United
    1710
    England
    29-8-6
    2.21
    27
    40
    43
    -105
  

    16
    Linköping
    1670
    Sweden
    35-8-10
    2.13
    34
    51
    52
    +42
  

    17
    Twente
    1640
    Netherlands
    44-2-4
    2.68
    10
    25
    44
    +83
  

    18
    Hoffenheim
    1636
    Germany
    27-8-11
    1.93
    30
    44
    46
    -130
  

    19
    Ajax
    1628
    Netherlands
    41-7-5
    2.45
    14
    30
    47
    +36
  

    20
    Zenit
    1613
    Russia
    39-10-2
    2.49
    15
    33
    49
    +33
  

    21
    Sporting CP
    1586
    Portugal
    33-5-6
    2.36
    10
    17
    42
    +15
  

    22
    Juventus
    1580
    Italy
    43-14-8
    2.20
    15
    34
    52
    -10
  

    23
    Leverkusen
    1574
    Germany
    13-11-20
    1.14
    30
    43
    44
    +31
  

    24
    Vittsjö
    1573
    Sweden
    27-10-14
    1.78
    31
    49
    51
    +35
  

    25
    Kristianstad
    1572
    Sweden
    30-13-11
    1.91
    31
    53
    54
    -13
  

    26
    Piteå
    1549
    Sweden
    29-8-16
    1.79
    31
    51
    53
    -9
  

    27
    Rosengård
    1544
    Sweden
    36-13-16
    1.86
    42
    63
    65
    -124
  

    28
    CSKA Moskva
    1541
    Russia
    39-4-8
    2.37
    13
    31
    49
    +2
  

    29
    Real Madrid
    1519
    Spain
    58-7-15
    2.26
    25
    43
    76
    -59
  

    30
    Lokomotiv Moskva
    1492
    Russia
    35-7-9
    2.20
    14
    34
    49
    +16
  

    31
    SGS Essen
    1455
    Germany
    12-10-22
    1.05
    30
    43
    44
    +85
  

    32
    Brann
    1422
    Norway
    39-13-10
    2.10
    19
    34
    59
    +46
  

    33
    Atletico Madrid
    1420
    Spain
    35-15-10
    2.00
    10
    25
    59
    +64
  

    34
    Werder Bremen
    1414
    Germany
    11-11-22
    1.00
    32
    43
    44
    +75
  

    35
    AIK
    1412
    Sweden
    24-6-22
    1.50
    19
    33
    46
    +211
  

    36
    Fleury 91
    1395
    France
    22-8-13
    1.72
    20
    33
    43
    -110
  

    37
    Rosenborg
    1394
    Norway
    36-8-12
    2.07
    16
    31
    55
    +5
  

    38
    Stade de Reims
    1387
    France
    21-6-16
    1.60
    21
    30
    43
    +60
  

    39
    Sporting Braga
    1378
    Portugal
    29-5-10
    2.09
    11
    18
    40
    -53
  

    40
    Montpellier
    1366
    France
    21-10-15
    1.59
    21
    34
    46
    -35
  

    41
    Levante
    1362
    Spain
    38-8-17
    1.94
    14
    30
    61
    +30
  

    42
    Slavia Praha
    1360
    Czech Republic
    37-5-9
    2.27
    12
    19
    19
    +3
  

    43
    Freiburg
    1355
    Germany
    16-10-18
    1.32
    29
    43
    44
    +25
  

    44
    Everton
    1351
    England
    12-8-22
    1.05
    24
    39
    42
    +8
  

    45
    Aston Villa
    1346
    England
    14-4-23
    1.12
    27
    38
    41
    -124
  

    46
    Fortuna Sittard
    1334
    Netherlands
    18-4-8
    1.93
    6
    14
    27
    +37
  

    47
    Lillestrøm
    1333
    Norway
    25-14-13
    1.71
    15
    27
    50
    +149
  

    48
    Vålerenga
    1333
    Norway
    35-13-8
    2.11
    14
    34
    55
    -213
  

    49
    Tottenham Hotspur
    1332
    England
    13-9-20
    1.14
    23
    40
    42
    +52
  

    50
    Växjö
    1331
    Sweden
    29-10-14
    1.83
    16
    30
    44
    -5
  

    51
    Liverpool
    1330
    England
    18-10-12
    1.60
    14
    27
    31
    +92
  

    52
    St. Pölten
    1324
    Austria
    41-3-8
    2.42
    8
    16
    35
    -32
  

    53
    Köln
    1322
    Germany
    11-10-23
    0.98
    28
    43
    44
    -6
  

    54
    KIF Örebro
    1290
    Sweden
    19-5-28
    1.19
    32
    51
    52
    -51
  

    55
    Zvezda Perm
    1287
    Russia
    18-14-17
    1.39
    14
    28
    47
    +97
  

    56
    Madrid
    1274
    Spain
    28-6-26
    1.50
    15
    31
    58
    +42
  

    57
    Norrköping
    1249
    Sweden
    25-6-19
    1.62
    15
    30
    42
    +42
  

    58
    Brommapojkarna
    1241
    Sweden
    7-11-35
    0.60
    39
    52
    53
    +107
  

    59
    Fiorentina
    1235
    Italy
    24-7-18
    1.61
    11
    24
    42
    +87
  

    60
    PSV
    1232
    Netherlands
    25-7-14
    1.78
    11
    22
    41
    +14
  

    61
    Leicester City
    1230
    England
    9-5-28
    0.76
    28
    41
    42
    +58
  

    62
    Sevilla
    1229
    Spain
    22-15-22
    1.37
    14
    30
    58
    +81
  

    63
    Brøndby
    1219
    Denmark
    29-6-13
    1.94
    6
    18
    43
    -11
  

    64
    Brighton & Hove Albion
    1219
    England
    9-7-26
    0.81
    25
    41
    42
    -21
  

    65
    Køge
    1218
    Denmark
    35-8-9
    2.17
    4
    19
    48
    -176
  

    66
    Uppsala
    1215
    Sweden
    20-15-17
    1.44
    16
    30
    43
    +13
  

    67
    Duisburg
    1208
    Germany
    17-8-23
    1.23
    23
    32
    42
    -74
  

    68
    West Ham United
    1203
    England
    11-6-25
    0.93
    25
    39
    42
    -70
  

    69
    Dinamo Moskva
    1193
    Russia
    14-2-11
    1.63
    9
    17
    25
    +95
  

    70
    BIIK Kazygurt
    1193
    Kazakhstan
    31-4-2
    2.62
    0
    0
    15
    -38
  

    71
    Le Havre
    1193
    France
    17-13-15
    1.42
    17
    26
    39
    +107
  

    72
    AC Milan
    1192
    Italy
    22-11-16
    1.57
    13
    24
    42
    -120
  

    73
    Trelleborg
    1187
    Sweden
    17-5-4
    2.15
    1
    6
    21
    +27
  

    74
    Bordeaux
    1185
    France
    15-8-21
    1.20
    20
    32
    44
    -118
  

    75
    Djurgården
    1173
    Sweden
    14-8-31
    0.94
    34
    52
    53
    -20
  

    76
    Valur
    1171
    Iceland
    33-9-7
    2.20
    4
    5
    35
    -35
  

    77
    Racing Seixal
    1161
    Portugal
    4-1-3
    1.63
    2
    2
    8
    +11
  

    78
    Guingamp
    1157
    France
    13-6-26
    1.00
    22
    33
    45
    -72
  

    79
    Turbine Potsdam
    1153
    Germany
    17-7-23
    1.23
    24
    36
    42
    -94
  

    80
    PEC Zwolle
    1150
    Netherlands
    17-8-20
    1.31
    11
    25
    41
    +67
  

    81
    Internazionale
    1141
    Italy
    22-10-17
    1.55
    11
    26
    41
    -10
  

    82
    Fortuna Hjørring
    1131
    Denmark
    25-6-17
    1.69
    9
    20
    44
    -100
  

    83
    Dinamo-BGU
    1120
    Belarus
    56-3-2
    2.80
    2
    2
    8
    +42
  

    84
    Kiryat Gat
    1120
    Israel
    40-11-3
    2.43
    1
    1
    21
    -18
  

    85
    ADO Den Haag
    1119
    Netherlands
    21-8-15
    1.61
    12
    19
    39
    -58
  

    86
    Marítimo
    1118
    Portugal
    17-3-24
    1.23
    14
    23
    40
    +207
  

    87
    Stabæk
    1115
    Norway
    18-10-24
    1.23
    22
    32
    51
    +54
  

    88
    Famalicão
    1111
    Portugal
    20-6-18
    1.50
    15
    17
    41
    -97
  

    89
    RB Leipzig
    1111
    Germany
    33-6-13
    2.02
    6
    13
    38
    +15
  

    90
    Alingsås
    1105
    Sweden
    31-15-7
    2.04
    2
    15
    41
    -52
  

    91
    Sparta Praha
    1101
    Czech Republic
    25-7-10
    1.95
    10
    12
    12
    -44
  

    92
    Rangers
    1098
    Scotland
    54-9-4
    2.55
    2
    5
    19
    +65
  

    93
    UD Tenerife
    1082
    Spain
    27-10-22
    1.54
    13
    25
    58
    -28
  

    94
    Meppen
    1081
    Germany
    21-9-20
    1.44
    16
    24
    41
    -123
  

    95
    Real Sociedad
    1081
    Spain
    27-13-22
    1.52
    14
    25
    62
    -17
  

    96
    Nordsjælland
    1078
    Denmark
    17-11-18
    1.35
    7
    23
    41
    +130
  

    97
    Celtic
    1073
    Scotland
    53-5-8
    2.48
    1
    9
    16
    +72
  

    98
    Spartak Subotica
    1069
    Serbia
    27-3-4
    2.47
    3
    3
    4
    -1
  

    99
    Lidköping
    1062
    Sweden
    24-13-15
    1.63
    0
    14
    38
    +73
  

    100
    Lyn
    1060
    Norway
    18-15-19
    1.33
    14
    29
    49
    -8
  

    101
    Altach / Vorderland
    1055
    Austria
    26-4-6
    2.28
    3
    8
    20
    +62
  

    102
    Dijon
    1044
    France
    6-10-28
    0.64
    24
    35
    44
    +36
  

    103
    Chertanovo
    1040
    Russia
    17-10-22
    1.24
    11
    28
    46
    -134
  

    104
    Athletic Club
    1039
    Spain
    23-8-29
    1.28
    15
    30
    59
    +16
  

    105
    Krasnodar
    1036
    Russia
    15-10-25
    1.10
    12
    29
    47
    +83
  

    106
    Nürnberg
    1028
    Germany
    25-3-22
    1.56
    7
    14
    39
    +31
  

    107
    Valadares Gaia
    1024
    Portugal
    20-8-16
    1.55
    9
    13
    33
    +143
  

    108
    Damaiense
    1018
    Portugal
    14-7-9
    1.63
    8
    11
    28
    +1
  

    109
    Utrecht
    1012
    Netherlands
    5-2-4
    1.55
    2
    6
    10
    +12
  

    110
    Stjarnan
    1010
    Iceland
    22-10-11
    1.77
    1
    8
    33
    -21
  

    111
    Sturm Graz
    1010
    Austria
    27-4-9
    2.13
    6
    6
    23
    -141
  

    112
    Thróttur Reykjavík
    1008
    Iceland
    21-6-14
    1.68
    0
    6
    31
    +95
  

    113
    Sassuolo
    1007
    Italy
    18-11-20
    1.33
    8
    19
    37
    -47
  

    114
    Breidablik
    1004
    Iceland
    24-7-14
    1.76
    2
    8
    33
    -39
  

    115
    Eskilstuna United
    1003
    Sweden
    22-10-21
    1.43
    17
    34
    47
    -210
  

    116
    Rostov
    1002
    Russia
    17-11-23
    1.22
    18
    30
    48
    -180
  

    117
    Torreense
    984
    Portugal
    12-10-22
    1.05
    15
    23
    41
    +28
  

    118
    Levante Las Planas
    979
    Spain
    20-17-24
    1.26
    8
    19
    50
    +98
  

    119
    Yenisey
    976
    Russia
    13-10-27
    0.98
    12
    27
    47
    +42
  

    120
    Ryazan
    976
    Russia
    10-8-32
    0.76
    15
    32
    48
    -28
  

    121
    Umeå
    975
    Sweden
    14-7-31
    0.94
    20
    35
    46
    -78
  

    122
    Bristol City
    974
    England
    22-7-14
    1.70
    5
    10
    19
    +51
  

    123
    Birmingham City
    971
    England
    24-5-18
    1.64
    11
    12
    23
    -55
  

    124
    Mallbacken
    968
    Sweden
    21-9-22
    1.38
    2
    15
    39
    +90
  

    125
    SC Sand
    965
    Germany
    19-13-19
    1.37
    10
    16
    40
    +57
  

    126
    Real Betis
    965
    Spain
    14-16-30
    0.97
    12
    31
    59
    +34
  

    127
    Deportivo
    961
    Spain
    32-17-17
    1.71
    0
    0
    27
    +107
  

    128
    Lille
    960
    France
    26-7-12
    1.89
    5
    8
    19
    +27
  

    129
    Saint-Étienne
    956
    France
    20-6-19
    1.47
    10
    18
    25
    +55
  

    130
    Valencia
    954
    Spain
    19-10-31
    1.12
    13
    30
    59
    -7
  

    131
    Kalmar
    952
    Sweden
    5-7-39
    0.43
    36
    51
    51
    -86
  

    132
    First Vienna
    951
    Austria
    20-3-13
    1.75
    4
    7
    19
    +182
  

    133
    Kolbotn
    951
    Norway
    28-8-14
    1.84
    6
    14
    24
    -28
  

    134
    Gamla Upsala
    945
    Sweden
    22-10-19
    1.49
    1
    18
    38
    -48
  

    135
    Feyenoord
    934
    Netherlands
    13-9-23
    1.07
    11
    24
    40
    -91
  

    136
    Jitex
    930
    Sweden
    24-7-21
    1.52
    1
    17
    36
    +5
  

    137
    Røa
    925
    Norway
    8-14-31
    0.72
    16
    33
    50
    -23
  

    138
    Villarreal
    920
    Spain
    14-14-32
    0.93
    14
    32
    58
    +29
  

    139
    Kolding
    917
    Denmark
    14-10-22
    1.13
    7
    24
    42
    -31
  

    140
    OH Leuven
    915
    Belgium
    40-8-8
    2.29
    0
    4
    13
    +1
  

    141
    Glasgow City
    912
    Scotland
    53-7-10
    2.37
    1
    10
    18
    -75
  

    142
    Marseille
    911
    France
    27-6-10
    2.02
    0
    0
    8
    +75
  

    143
    Thisted FC
    906
    Denmark
    10-7-29
    0.80
    8
    24
    42
    +59
  

    144
    Sundsvall
    903
    Sweden
    15-5-31
    0.98
    0
    17
    41
    +238
  

    145
    Como
    900
    Italy
    24-11-19
    1.54
    6
    13
    27
    +100
  

    146
    Gütersloh
    898
    Germany
    24-11-19
    1.54
    0
    7
    38
    -85
  

    147
    Åsane
    897
    Norway
    18-7-22
    1.30
    8
    19
    33
    +99
  

    148
    Alhama
    897
    Spain
    23-14-23
    1.38
    7
    16
    36
    +21
  

    149
    Barcelona II
    889
    Spain
    36-10-16
    1.90
    0
    0
    28
    +33
  

    150
    Carl Zeiss Jena
    887
    Germany
    19-7-26
    1.23
    10
    17
    40
    -7
  

    151
    Espanyol
    884
    Spain
    28-18-14
    1.70
    0
    1
    29
    +176
  

    152
    Arna-Bjørnar
    882
    Norway
    12-8-33
    0.83
    14
    31
    50
    -77
  

    153
    Andernach
    879
    Germany
    24-18-12
    1.67
    0
    6
    37
    -30
  

    154
    KuPS
    869
    Finland
    39-5-7
    2.39
    3
    5
    5
    +117
  

    155
    Thór / KA
    868
    Iceland
    15-5-21
    1.22
    0
    6
    31
    +55
  

    156
    AGF
    866
    Denmark
    16-3-17
    1.42
    3
    12
    23
    +54
  

    157
    Charlton Athletic
    866
    England
    22-12-11
    1.73
    0
    5
    16
    +114
  

    158
    Reading
    860
    England
    9-9-25
    0.84
    20
    30
    35
    -291
  

    159
    Albergaria
    860
    Portugal
    9-7-28
    0.77
    16
    23
    42
    -63
  

    160
    Strasbourg
    858
    France
    24-10-8
    1.95
    0
    0
    9
    +98
  

    161
    Avaldsnes
    853
    Norway
    11-10-33
    0.80
    15
    29
    49
    +14
  

    162
    Anderlecht
    847
    Belgium
    45-5-10
    2.33
    0
    1
    14
    -110
  

    163
    Eintracht Frankfurt II
    840
    Germany
    22-11-21
    1.43
    0
    5
    36
    +26
  

    164
    Tomiris Turan
    838
    Kazakhstan
    20-5-11
    1.81
    1
    8
    17
    +2
  

    165
    Apollon Limassol
    835
    Cyprus
    43-1-3
    2.77
    2
    2
    2
    -1
  

    166
    Rodez
    834
    France
    15-7-19
    1.27
    12
    19
    26
    -143
  

    167
    Rubin Kazan
    834
    Russia
    8-14-28
    0.76
    12
    32
    47
    -68
  

    168
    Tindastóll
    832
    Iceland
    7-5-9
    1.24
    0
    4
    16
    +85
  

    169
    Eibar
    831
    Spain
    19-17-24
    1.23
    7
    16
    43
    -18
  

    170
    FH
    829
    Iceland
    8-5-10
    1.26
    0
    4
    19
    +134
  

    171
    Heerenveen
    829
    Netherlands
    10-5-29
    0.80
    10
    25
    41
    -121
  

    172
    Minsk
    828
    Belarus
    51-2-8
    2.54
    2
    9
    9
    -82
  

    173
    Osasuna
    824
    Spain
    30-17-16
    1.70
    0
    0
    29
    +36
  

    174
    Hapoel Jerusalem
    816
    Israel
    15-9-8
    1.69
    0
    3
    9
    +55
  

    175
    Granada
    816
    Spain
    29-12-25
    1.50
    3
    7
    31
    -118
  

    176
    Sampdoria
    814
    Italy
    14-5-30
    0.96
    7
    20
    38
    +26
  

    177
    Deportivo Alavés
    808
    Spain
    11-13-36
    0.77
    10
    26
    53
    -61
  

    178
    Neulengbach
    808
    Austria
    18-2-16
    1.56
    4
    7
    19
    -11
  

    179
    PAOK
    807
    Greece
    41-1-3
    2.76
    1
    2
    2
    +7
  

    180
    Ferencváros
    804
    Hungary
    46-4-1
    2.78
    0
    2
    2
    +29
  

    181
    Excelsior
    800
    Netherlands
    5-9-31
    0.53
    11
    26
    43
    +91
  

    182
    Standard Liège
    795
    Belgium
    32-9-15
    1.88
    0
    4
    16
    +19
  

    183
    Austria Wien
    795
    Austria
    16-6-14
    1.50
    4
    7
    19
    -18
  

    184
    Crystal Palace
    792
    England
    23-4-17
    1.66
    0
    2
    16
    +105
  

    185
    Mönchengladbach
    792
    Germany
    4-3-5
    1.25
    0
    2
    6
    -63
  

    186
    Vilaverdense
    790
    Portugal
    10-3-31
    0.75
    15
    23
    43
    -139
  

    187
    Sporting de Huelva
    789
    Spain
    12-15-33
    0.85
    14
    31
    60
    -133
  

    188
    Okzhetpes
    788
    Kazakhstan
    21-6-11
    1.82
    1
    9
    17
    -134
  

    189
    Ingolstadt
    787
    Germany
    20-10-26
    1.25
    0
    7
    41
    +85
  

    190
    Ouriense
    787
    Portugal
    13-9-22
    1.09
    8
    11
    32
    -1
  

    191
    Nantes
    781
    France
    22-8-13
    1.72
    0
    0
    13
    +37
  

    192
    Keflavík
    771
    Iceland
    11-7-21
    1.03
    0
    6
    29
    +81
  

    193
    Telstar
    769
    Netherlands
    5-5-21
    0.65
    7
    18
    29
    -3
  

    194
    Southampton
    767
    England
    16-6-11
    1.64
    0
    2
    11
    +59
  

    195
    ASA Tel Aviv
    760
    Israel
    18-10-21
    1.31
    0
    1
    19
    +38
  

    196
    Albacete
    758
    Spain
    21-19-21
    1.34
    0
    0
    21
    +53
  

    197
    AEM Lleida
    758
    Spain
    28-12-21
    1.57
    0
    0
    25
    -12
  

    198
    Bromölla
    756
    Sweden
    17-8-27
    1.13
    1
    13
    39
    -147
  

    199
    Bayern München II
    752
    Germany
    23-9-21
    1.47
    0
    6
    34
    -83
  

    200
    Bollstanäs
    744
    Sweden
    4-11-10
    0.92
    1
    9
    21
    +18
  


  

Seven Goalkeepers in Europe with Long-Term NWSL Potential

Bill Reno August 29, 2022

This article is a guest-submitted article by a writer wishing to stay anonymous. The post was edited by Bill Reno. Cover photo belongs to Arsenal FC.

For many goalkeepers based abroad, a new season is beginning, with all the associated hopes for personal achievement and team glory. Other players are deep into the schedule, hoping to grasp silverware or avoid the turmoil of relegation. As is customary for the position, a single heroic moment or blunder could forever become etched into club lore. While the quality in Europe can vary compared to the National Women’s Soccer League, there are several intriguing talents plying their respective trades and building careers across the Old Continent.

With most clubs carrying two or three goalkeepers on the roster, there are few domestic opportunities for match time. After several years in college, gaining professional experience is essential, after which a move could be made to the NWSL. Here are five European-based players to watch with the potential to climb the ladder.

Kaylan Marckese, Arsenal (England)

After spending an underwhelming debut professional season with NJ/NY Gotham FC, the former Florida Gator has carved out quite the burgeoning career in Europe. Following a season at Icelandic outfit Selfoss, which included claiming the Women’s Football Super Cup, Marckese moved to HB Køge. She claimed the starting job and led Svanerne (The Swans) to consecutive Kvindeliga titles.

Her performances drew the attention of 15-time domestic champions Arsenal, who signed the 24-year-old on a permanent contract. She competed twice against the Gunners last season in the UEFA Women’s Champions League. Her new manager, Jonas Eidevall, expects her to “bring real quality to [the] squad” and is “ready for the challenge of playing in England.”

Arsenal finished second in the table last season with Austrian international Manuela Zinsberger making 33 appearances. She should be the assumed starter again, although Marckese will have ample opportunities as a backup. The new signing is expected to “add competition to the squad.”

Marckese has a solid, powerful frame that allows her to handle physical challenges on crosses. While lacking explosive athleticism, the 5’11” goalkeeper possesses a calm nature and is often in the perfect position to make a save, more than capable of covering the entire area. Contrary to the typical American player, she utilizes her whole body to make stops, unafraid to kick out her legs on low, driven shots.

Marckese was on the fringes of the national team program in her youth, earning an invitation to a U-19 camp in 2015. While distant from a senior call-up, there is a compelling composure to the nature of her game – a no-frills steadiness that is often embodied by reliable back-ups. If able to earn regular playing time and claim the number one role at Arsenal, she is on an easily charted upward trajectory with an unknown ceiling and young enough to still reach those heights.

Amanda “Mandy” McGlynn, Piteå IF (Sweden)

Considered one of the top collegiate prospects in the 2020 NWSL Draft, Gotham FC selected McGlynn following four decorated seasons at Virginia Tech. The Jacksonville, Florida native set school records for shutouts and goals against average, while earning an array of All-Conference and All-American accolades. Her professional career began with a slow start, as she made a mere single appearance across two seasons.

In December, Gotham announced that the goalkeeper was moving to Piteå IF in the Swedish Damallsvenskan on a one-year contract. The American club would “retain her NWSL playing rights until the 2024 preseason.” McGlynn was excited for the opportunity to become a “more all-around” player.

Piteå is currently lodged in the middle of the Swedish table, with McGlynn having played in every match. She is gaining the necessary experience and impressing local media with her performances. “Sharp” is the most frequently used description, as her athleticism is rescuing points and helping the club steal results.

McGlynn is a solid shot-stopper with strong propulsion on her jumps and dives, having the mental presence to push the ball away without surrendering cheap rebounds. Her form and footwork are excellent, which sets her up to be in the right position. She displays the ability to recover on crosses, deflections, and loose balls in the final third, making heroic sprints across the line that culminates with an intelligent kick-out or fingertip save.

As an international, McGlynn was a frequent inclusion for the United States at the youth level. She was in goal at the 2018 CONCACAF Women’s U-20 Championship and on the roster for the ensuing World Cup. Her most recent call-up was an invitation to a U-23 camp, but perhaps her time in Sweden could lead back to the NWSL and the senior squad.

Katelin Talbert, Benfica (Portugal)

One of the year’s best stories, Talbert signed with Benfica during the winter and led the historic outfit to the Campeonato Nacional Feminino title. The 23-year-old hit the ground running and established a long shutout streak, surrendering a mere four goals in eight appearances. She made a series of stunning saves in the deciding match against Sporting CP, including a confident stop on a penalty attempt. Despite her brief tenure, the players’ union named her Goalkeeper of the Year for the 2021/22 season.

Talbert is something of a Srinivasa Ramanujan-type, lacking the tutelage of “a dedicated goalkeeper coach” prior to her time in Portugal. She played collegiate ball at Humboldt State University (now known as California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt) from 2016 through 2019, a Division II institution nestled into the northwest of the Golden State. After graduating, she played with California Storm and trained with OL Reign before joining Fimleikafélag Hafnarfjarðar in the second tier of Iceland and making 18 total appearances. Following a few months of training with West Ham, her winding career journey landed with Benfica – an overnight sensation years in the making.

Almost impossible to beat from distance, Talbert has thrived in Portugal’s professional environment, improving her “technique and positioning.” She describes her confident style as “making difficult flying saves,” occasionally “jumping like a crazy person” while also charging out of the box to beat attackers to long balls. Stopping penalty attempts is an asset, possessing the composure and intelligence to read the opponent’s body. Her composed distribution allows her to receive hard passes from teammates and select the proper option when under pressure.

Carly Nelson, Nordsjælland (Denmark)

Nelson has taken an interesting journey through the ranks, enduring noted struggles that included jaw surgery that required the use of a medication tube while competing with the Utah Royals FC reserve team. After capping a four-year career at the University of Utah with All-Pac-12 and All-Pacific Region selection, the 24-year-old signed a short-term contract with OL Reign in advance of the 2020 NWSL Challenge Cup. The club gave her another deal through the end of the ensuing Fall Series.

Nelson then moved to expansion side Kansas City Current. In her sole appearance, she earned a shutout in a 0-0 draw against North Carolina Courage, an experience described as “a dream come true.” Her remaining time at the club would last a total of one month, being sent on loan to Nordsjælland of the Danish Kvindeligaen.

During her first season in Europe, Nelson featured in 23 matches. The goalkeeper “settled in really well,” utilizing the club’s development resources and “fantastic coaches,” which allowed her to “feel a greater understanding and attention to the game.” She earned Team of the Week honors an impressive four times. Following her release from Kansas City this summer, Nordsjælland converted the loan into a permanent deal.

Nelson’s preference can be to hang back, waiting to make a save, but she will charge off the line at a sharp angle when necessary. The Nordsjælland back line hangs her out to dry from time to time, allowing the opponent to penetrate far too deep into the defensive third, which forces her into emergency mode. Her footwork, notably horizontal shuffling, proves useful in all situations and, of course, on penalty attempts. There is little hesitation when challenging for crosses, often absorbing heavy contact but still ending up with the ball.

Nordsjælland opened the season with a 3-0 loss to FC Thy-Thisted Q, which could be a sign of trouble ahead. Nelson will have to continue to earn points for her club, the opportunity to earn accolades with heroic play. While competing for champions is preferable, grinding in the mid-table can provide necessary experience for a goalkeeper looking to develop as a professional.

Megan McClure, KFF Vllaznia Shkodër (Albania)

One of the most recent Americans to head overseas, McClure registered five seasons at Arkansas State, setting several school records. During her final years, she was named Sun Belt Conference Goalkeeper of the Year. Despite training with Racing Louisville, the allure of continental competition beckoned.

McClure joined Albanian powerhouse KFF Vllaznia Shkodër, which has claimed nine consecutive National Football Championships and Women’s Cups. The Kuq e Blutë (Red & Blues) are in the qualifying rounds of this year’s UEFA Champions League, starting with a match against the winner between Breznica and Spartak Myjava. The new goalkeeper has the opportunity to earn playing time and make an immediate impact. While not venturing to a destination league or toiling away as a back-up at a more prestigious club, this is a shrewd decision to start the beginning of a career in order to gain a toehold in the professional world.

Perhaps what stands out most about McClure is her ability to make fast-twitch saves, quickly shifting into a dive to shots from close range and reacting when screened. She also has solid hands and is unafraid to challenge for a cross in a crowded box. While many goalkeepers struggle to make decisions or react under pressure, the 23-year-old possesses the presence of mind to kick out when forced into an awkward movement in the goalmouth or in the midst of a breakaway, thus avoiding unnecessary blunders.

Photo belongs to Oregon State University

Bridgette Skiba, HB Køge (Denmark)

Currently building a dynasty in Denmark, HB Køge needed to rebound from the departure of Marckese and made a strong statement with her replacement. Dipping back into the American pool, the club added Skiba on a two-year contract. The “ambitious and brave” goalkeeper was most recently on the books with the Chicago Red Stars in the NWSL, signed as a “replacement player” in July.

While a standout with Oregon State, she was unable to latch onto an NWSL roster and faced the tough decision to wait for the next chance or look elsewhere. With limited opportunities in the United States, Skiba was able to accomplish her “big dream” of playing in Europe. The new signing “feels comfortable” at Køge and earned the first professional minutes of her career, starting and earning a shutout in a 4-0 victory over FC Thy-Thisted Q.

Skiba is an intriguing player who should continue to develop with experience. She gets to the ground quickly and is rarely beaten on low shots. An impressive wingspan allows her to cover the entire goalmouth when fully extended, reaching high to stop balls destined for the top shelf. As with many goalkeepers enjoying their first extended spell in a professional environment, her athleticism and physical attributes should improve with structured training and a committed program, which should enable the 22-year-old to push for a higher level after a few seasons in Denmark.

Aubrei Corder, IFK Kalmar (Sweden)

On her third European club, Corder could be considered something of a veteran. Following four years and 80 appearances at the University of Nebraska, she moved abroad and started her professional career with Poland’s KKPK Medyk Konin. After a runner-up finish, the coronavirus pandemic forced an early return home. The next stop was at Apollon Limassol in the Cypriot First Division.

Next, she went to IFK Kalmar, then in Sweden’s second-tier Elitettan. In her first season, Corder made 22 appearances, leading the club to a runner-up finish and promotion. Local media considered her a standout and the lynchpin of a stout defense. The club signed the league’s Goalkeeper of the Year to a contract extension in advance of the promotion adventure, with the adopted country “a good environment to grow.”

The adjustment to the first-tier Damallsvenskan has been steep, with Kalmar currently at 10th place in the 14-team table, a mere two points above the relegation-playoff spot. Compounding matters, Corder underwent knee surgery during the offseason and dealt with a collision-induced concussion in March but was able to maintain the number one role. Despite struggling with the occasional error, her play is described as “fantastic,” often forced to play the hero. The club is building for the future, with the West Virginia native expected to be a key part of the roster moving forward.

At 6’, Corder has the height to cover the crossbar and cuts down angles when fast-breaking opponents maraud into the final third. She performs the necessary lateral movements and rapidly shifts into a diving motion, displaying impressive athleticism when called into action. Teammates praise her as being “focused, always doing the right thing, and commanding the penalty area.”

Enduring a challenging season with a club punching above its weight can be the best learning experience for a goalkeeper. While being shelled is far from ideal, the best players will steal points and make a real difference in avoiding relegation. Corder is likely to emerge from Sweden in a strong mental state with the improved form that comes from age and experience.