Daniela Frank Flores, a distinguished central defender for Cruz Azul in Liga MX Femenil, has been making headlines for her exceptional defensive skills and ball-playing capabilities. At just 24 years old, the Mexican national epitomizes the modern center-back, blending defensive solidity with an adept ability to transition the ball from defense to attack. Over the course of 14 games in the current season, Daniela has amassed 944 minutes on the pitch, marking her as a reliable presence in the heart of Cruz Azul's defense.
Though not a frequent goal scorer, with a goal per game rate of 0.1 and no assists, Daniela Frank Flores' value transcends traditional statistics. Her strengths lie in her defensive acumen and ball distribution. Daniela’s lower expected goals (xG) of 0.04 per game and absence of shots in matches underscore her primary focus: keeping the opposing team at bay. Her tactical intelligence and reading of the game are evident in her impressive average of 6.82 interceptions per game, adjusted for possession, which reflects her ability to anticipate and disrupt the opposition's play.
Daniela shines particularly in her capacity as a ball-playing center-back, a role she fulfills with flair as highlighted by her player archetype. With an average progressive carrying distance of 107.98 per game and a remarkable progressive passing distance of 400.78 per game, she is integral to Cruz Azul’s buildup play. Her Playmaker Rank of 2 within the squad underscores her importance in initiating and facilitating attacking moves from deep positions. Despite a challenge success rate that registers at 0%, it is her ball distribution and strategic interceptions that contribute significantly to her team's defensive resilience.
Off the ball, Daniela's challenge rate of 7.45 per game, although not yet translating into direct success, indicates her active involvement in disrupting the opposition's play. With no estimated transfer value, Cruz Azul benefits from a player who not only secures the back line but also adds a layer of creativity from defense, embodying the philosophy of a ball-playing center-back. Daniela Frank Flores' calculated approach and technical prowess make her a player to watch in Liga MX Femenil as she continues to develop and refine her game.