Rafaelle (Orlando Pride)

Defender Rafaelle has agreed a new contract with Orlando Pride that will keep her with the club through the 2028 NWSL season.

“Since arriving at our club, Rafaelle has proven to be an exceptional leader both on the pitch and in the locker room,” said Haley Carter, the club’s vice-president of soccer operations and sporting director, in a statement issued to media.

“She’s one of the best centre backs in the world, and her experience, composure under pressure, and tactical awareness have been instrumental in strengthening our backline. Securing her commitment through 2028 is a major statement as we continue building a championship-calibre squad for Orlando.”

Rafaelle has helped the Pride to secure consecutive play-off appearances for the first time ever. Now 34, she made her debut for the club in August 2023, scoring against Chicago Stars, and has since made 29 appearances across all competitions. Notably, the Pride are unbeaten in 21 of the 26 regular season matches in which Rafaelle has played, winning 16 of those matches.

Rafaelle: her career so far

The Brazil international spent 18 months with Arsenal, signing for them in January 2022, making 35 appearances and scoring four goals, helping them...