Before the close of the NWSL’s secondary transfer window, the Portland Thorns acquired Columbian international winger Valerin Loboa from Deportivo Cali (Colombia). The contract runs through the 2028 season with a club option for 2029.
The 18-year old phenom is coming off a superb showing at the 2025 CONMEBOL Copa América Femenina, where she made appearance in all six matches (three starts), scoring her first international goal against Bolivia. Colombia would advance to the Copa América final versus
Brazil in a 4-4 instant classic that ended in penalties. Both finalists will represent CONMEBOL at the 2028 Los Angeles Summer Olympics.
She made her professional soccer debut at 14 with her hometown club Deportivo Cali in 2022. In 35 appearances, she has scored eight goals and tallied four assists.
“Valerin’s talent and potential was showcased on one of women’s football’s biggest stages and across the interest she received from top clubs around the world, we are pleased to see she committed to become a Thorn,” President and General Manager, Soccer Operations Jeff Agoos said. “This signing is a testament of our work to cultivate an environment and culture that attracts and develops young talent, and we believe Valerin has the ability to make an impact in the NWSL.”
After the loss of Caiya Hanks to SEI, the Thorns have simply, found no answers in attack. Loboa will provide a massive and much-needed boost the remainder of the 2025 season.
Can this move help Portland Thorns get back on track after back-to-back home losses to KC Current and Utah Royals?
