Moira Kelley is an American soccer player who has been making waves in the top tiers of women's football with her robust defensive capabilities and exceptional ball-playing skills. Currently a central defender (CB) with Linköping in Sweden's Damallsvenskan, Kelley has demonstrated her prowess on the field in a league known for its competitive edge and high skill levels. Born in the United States, she developed her football talents through collegiate soccer, playing for the Kansas Jayhawks and the Virginia Cavaliers, where she honed the skills that would define her professional career. At just 25 years old, Kelley has shown remarkable growth and adaptability, becoming a key player for her team.
In her recent season with Linköping, Kelley played 11 games, logging an impressive 1005 minutes on the pitch. Her ability to contribute to both defensive and offensive phases stands out, underscored by her average goal contribution of 0.1 goals per game. Although her primary role is as a defender, Kelley's attacking statistics show her as a well-rounded player, enhancing her team's dynamic play with a progressive carrying distance of 205.67 meters and a progressive passing distance of 392.5 meters per game. Her capability to move the ball forward efficiently and accurately allows Linköping to transition from defense to attack, showcasing her value as a ball-playing center-back.
Kelley's defensive stats are truly impressive, with a possession-adjusted average of 11.54 interceptions and 7.76 challenges per game, highlighting her excellent sense of positioning and anticipation. With a challenge success rate of 63%, she ranks among the top defenders in the league, consistently breaking up opposition attacks and regaining possession for her team. This solid defensive play is complemented by her ranking as a Playmaker Rank 3, reflecting her ability to create opportunities from deeper positions on the field.
With an estimated transfer value of €443K, Moira Kelley is considered a valuable asset in the world of women's football. Her role as a ball-playing center-back, characterized by both defensive solidity and offensive contributions, makes her a standout performer in the Damallsvenskan. As her career progresses, Kelley is poised to continue her upward trajectory, bringing her formidable skills to both club and country, and potentially attracting interest from top clubs across Europe and beyond.