By OkayGoal 
A recent flow of American talent has made waves in the European leagues. With the ongoing UEFA Women’s Champions League, European fans have gained insight into some of America’s best soccer stars. Let’s take a look at some of the American players who have made an impact in the Champions League.
Lindsey Heaps (Olympique Lyonnais)
Heaps has been a staple midfielder for the USWNT. She has made an impact in OL threads, recording seven assists in 13 appearances. She signed with OL in 2022 and is under contract that keeps her with Lyon until 2026. OL is set to play against Arsenal on April 19 in the semi-final 1st leg.
Naomi Girma (Chelsea)
Girma has gotten lots of attention after being the first to receive a million-dollar contract. Unfortunately, Girma has been sidelined for Chelsea due to a calf injury. But, after sitting out a few weeks and Chelsea’s next UWCL match not being until April 20, we may witness Girma out on the backline for the Blue Devils.
Korbin Albert (PSG)
Although not surpassing Round 2 of the tournament, PSG has been a powerhouse in the Champions League for many years. Additionally, Albert helped the squad get past the first round. She is a rising talent who has proven very skillful in the midfield.
Jenna Nighswonger (Arsenal)
After proving to be excellently skilled, Nighswonger has caught the attention of many. Her move from NJ/NY Gotham to Arsenal FC allows her to elevate her stature as a player. She has already played in three matches with Arsenal and will likely be in the lineup for their semi-final match against Olympique Lyonnais.
Mia Fishel (Chelsea)
Although only playing a total of 26 minutes for the Blues this season, Fishel has been an impactful sub. It should come as no surprise if we see Fishel subbed into the semi-final match against FC Barcelona. Therefore, fans should be eager for Fishel’s return in American threads since the last time she represented the USWNT, she unfortunately suffered an ACL injury.
Emily Fox (Arsenal)
Fox has definitely shown American crowds how composed of a defender she is and, as of late, has been showcasing her talents to European audiences. Arsenal has won the last five of their games, and many thanks go to their backline. It will be an exciting semi-final game between two dominating teams, Arsenal and Olympique Lyonnais, where Fox will face national teammates Lindsey Heaps and Sofia Huerta.
Sofia Huerta (Olympique Lyonnais OL)
Huerta has a lot of history in the NWSL, but this past fall Seattle Reign decided to loan her to Olympique Lyonnais. Her speedy and aggressive style on the backline enhances Lyon’s depth. She is set to face USWNT members Emily Fox and Jenna Nighswonger in OL’s semi-final match against Arsenal.
Catarina Macario (Chelsea)
Previously at Olympique Lyonnais, Macario’s move to Chelsea only poses a greater target on the backs of the Blue Devils. Unfortunately, her time with the USWNT has been impacted by injuries she has dealt with, but she was back in action for the USWNT in the 2025 SheBelieves Cup. Talent continues to fill the roster with the Blues, and Macario’s ability to put the ball in the back of the net elevates their chances of lifting the UEFA title at the end of the tournament.
Lily Yohannes (AFC Ajax)
Signing with Ajax at just 15 years of age already sets Yohannes apart as a unique player. Her decision to represent the United States rather than the Netherlands comes with great expectations, and she is set to play alongside some of the game’s best. This season, Yohannes has recorded five goals and three assists in 17 appearances for Ajax. Additionally, Yohannes helped the squad secure the victory in the first match of group play, but couldn’t secure the points needed to advance to the second round.
Image via @catarina_macario on Instagram
_
GIRLS SOCCER NETWORK: YOUR SOURCE FOR GIRLS SOCCER NEWS