The Elegance of Defending, at Natalia Colin’s Feet | OneFootball

Breaking paradigms will always make you stand out, especially in such a visible position as defense. When the traditional center-back stereotype includes strength and toughness, there are profiles that rely on technical ability, game reading and subtlety.

Having a player with those characteristics is an invaluable plus for any team, and Chivas Femenil can boast exactly that in Natalia Colin. Although the Rojiblanco defender has only played her first few matches with Guadalajara, that time on the field has been enough for her to establish herself as a starter in the most recent games of the Apertura 2026.

After winning the gold medal with Mexico at the 2026 Central American and Caribbean Games in Santo Domingo, Natalia first put on the Rebaño jersey against Puebla without needing an extended adaptation period. Since that afternoon in Angelópolis, she has played 8 matches in which she has showcased her individual quality, vision and understanding with the rest of Guadalajara’s back line.

Whether in a back four or three-player defensive line, Colin brought with her privileged talent that is much needed in the Rojiblanco buildup, particularly on the right side of the defense, not only to disrupt the opposition’s passing circuits, but also to actively contribute to building the play. In fact, she can already boast an assist this tournament, in a play where she won the ball back and then set up Alicia Cervantes.

As if that weren’t enough, her reading of the game allows her to anticipate opponents without the need for flashy moves or exaggerated gestures. Mark, recover and pass is the mantra she plays by.

Heading into a match in which Chivas Femenil will need to be especially careful about the space behind them, Natalia Colin’s involvement will be key to Guadalajara earning another 3 points against FC Juárez, so she will be one to watch closely this Sunday at Estadio AKRON.

Natalia Colin’s AP26 Numbers

- 8 matches played- 6 starts- 593 minutes played- 1 assist- 38 defensive contributions- 23 clearances- 184 accurate passes- 344 touches