FIFA WOMEN PLAYER OF THE YEAR: THE FINALIST

The Finalists

• Carli LLOYD

• 

  USA
• 2015 has been a banner year for Carli Lloyd, highlighted by her inspired performance at the FIFA Women’s World Cup Canada 2015™ during USA’s campaign that resulted in their third Women’s World Cup Trophy. The United States No10 earned the adidas Golden Ball at Canada 2015 and came in second in the Golden Boot race, finishing just behind Germany’s Celia Sasic. Lloyd’s hat-trick against Japan, including her remarkable finish from midfield will go down in history as one of the most memorable goals during a Women’s World Cup Final. With over 200 caps to her name, the New Jersey native has been a presence in the centre of midfield for USA since 2005. Lloyd made the shortlist for FIFA Women’s World Player of the Year in 2012 after she led USA to Olympic Gold at London 2012.

• Aya MIYAMA

• 

  JAPAN
• Slight in build and small in stature, Aya Miyama has used 2015 to confirm herself as a true giant of the women’s game. The latest FIFA Women’s World Cup was the little midfielder’s fourth, and it proved that she continues to improve with age. Now 30, Miyama was the captain and creative fulcrum of a Japan side that again reached the final only to lose on this occasion to the all-conquering USA. Her movement, intelligence, slick passing, superb set pieces and coolness from the penalty spot were all key elements in Japan’s impressive campaign, and were recognised with a place in the tournament’s All-Star Squad. With well over 150 caps already to her name, this two-time Asian player of the year continues to bring experience and excellence to the Nadeshiko ranks.

• Celia SASIC

• 

  GERMANY
• Celia Sasic left her mark on the FIFA Women’s World Cup Canada 2015™ with her unmistakable blend of technical class and ruthlessness in front of goal. The Germany striker’s six goals and one assist earned her the adidas Golden Boot as the tournament’s top scorer ahead of American Carli Lloyd, who reached exactly the same tally but needed more playing time to do so. Sasic also won the 2015 UEFA Women’s Champions League with Frankfurt and scored more goals last season than any other player in the Bundesliga or Champions League. The Bonn native was named Germany and Europe’s player of the year for 2015 in honour of these remarkable achievements. Having reached the peak of her career, Sasic announced her retirement from the game in July this year at the age of 27 after winning 111 caps and scoring 63 times for her country.