Olivia Smith: Canada’s Rising Superstar and Exciting Midfielder

Olivia Smith  is one of the most exciting and talented midfielders in football today, alongside Vicky Lopez and Linda Caicedo, Smith’s talent and potential promises to keep fans entertained and glued to their performances.

Her ascent through the ranks, highlights her potential as one of the hottest talents in the world of football today. Join us as we delve into the career of Olivia Smith so far.

Player Profile – Olivia Smith

Olivia Smith is a professional superstar for the Canadian national team and Liverpool in the English WSL. Her soccer career with Whitby Soccer Club and progressed through competitive teams before joining North Toronto SC and the Ontario Regional Excel (REX) program.

She later chose Penn State University for her college career but moved to professional soccer after one season. In 2022, Smith made a significant impact with North Toronto Nitros in League1 Ontario, scoring 18 goals and earning multiple awards.

Internationally, she has made significant strides winning the best young player at the recently concluded 2024 CONCACAF Women’s Gold Cup.

Player Profile Overview

Olivia Smith’s Early Life and Background

Olivia Smith was born on August 5, 2004, in North York, Ontario, and grew up in Whitby. She began playing soccer at a young age with the Whitby Soccer Club before advancing to competitive teams including Oshawa Kicks SC, Ajax SC, Markham FC, and North Toronto SC.

She later joined the Ontario Regional Excel (REX) program, now known as NDC Ontario, and returned to North Toronto SC before moving on to college. Smith’s early life and diverse soccer experiences set the foundation for her successful career.

Olivia Smith’s Playing Style and Strength

Olivia Smith’s playing style is marked by her technical skill, creativity, and attacking prowess. She excels in dribbling, making incisive passes, and scoring goals, with a versatile ability to play various midfield roles.

Olivia Smith: Taking the World by Storm

Olivia Smith’s soccer journey began with the Whitby Soccer Club, where her natural talent quickly became evident. As she progressed, she joined Oshawa Kicks SC and Ajax SC, honing her skills and proving herself in increasingly competitive environments.

Her time with Markham FC and North Toronto SC further solidified her reputation as a rising star. A pivotal moment came when she joined the Ontario Regional Excel (REX) program (later renamed NDC Ontario), where she trained intensively and prepared for the transition to collegiate soccer.

From College to Professional Stardom

Olivia Smith’s collegiate career began with an initial commitment to Florida State University. However, she made a surprising decision to attend Penn State University instead.

At Penn State, she made a significant impact from the start. She debuted on September 18, 2021, against the Indiana Hoosiers and scored her first goal just a week later against the Illinois Fighting Illini.

Despite her promising start, Smith chose to forgo her remaining college eligibility to pursue a professional career, a decision that would soon prove to be a pivotal one.

Playing for the North Toronto Nitros

In 2022, Smith joined the North Toronto Nitros in League1 Ontario, where she quickly made a mark. Her debut on May 7, 2022, was just the beginning. Smith’s remarkable form saw her score a stunning 18 goals in just 11 appearances.

Highlights of her season included a brace on May 18 against Electric City FC and a four-goal haul in a 6–1 victory over BVB IA Waterloo on June 18. Her stellar performances earned her the title of Young Player of the Season, Forward of the Year, and the Golden Boot.

Additionally, she was named a league First Team All-Star and U18 All-Star, solidifying her place as one of the league’s top talents.

Olivia Smith’s European Adventure with Sporting CP

Olivia Smith’s burgeoning career took a significant leap in July 2023 when she signed a three-year professional contract with Sporting CP in Portugal’s Campeonato Nacional Feminino.

Her debut for the club was impressive; she scored and provided an assist, immediately showcasing her potential on the European stage.

Olivia Smith’s first season with Sporting CP was marked by exceptional performances, culminating in her being voted Player of the Year by the league’s coaches and captains, and receiving the juried award for Best Young Player of the Season.

Olivia Smith’s A New Chapter at Liverpool

After spending a single season in Portugal with Sporting CP, Olivia Smith signed with Liverpool FC in the Women’s Super League in July 2024.

Her move to England meant Smith is stepping into one of the most competitive leagues in women’s soccer. This move represents a significant milestone in her career, offering her a platform to compete at the highest level and continue her rapid ascent in the world of soccer.

Olivia Smith: Dominating on the International Stage

Olivia Smith’s journey with the Canadian national program began early. In 2017, at just 12 years old, she attended a youth camp with Canada Soccer, setting the stage for her future international endeavors.

Her potential was quickly recognized, and she made her debut with the Canadian U15 team at the 2018 CONCACAF Girls’ Under-15 Championship.

Olivia Smith’s skill and potential continued to shine through, leading to her selection for the Canada U17 team. Her impressive performances caught the eye of selectors, and she was subsequently named to the Canada U20 squad for the 2022 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup.

She is also expected to star in the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup in Columbia, where she is expected to be one of the star attractions alongside Linda Caicedo, Milly Clegg, Ally Sentnor and Manaka Matsukubo.

Throughout these formative years, she played alongside notable teammates such as Jordyn Huitema and Sarah Stratigakis, both of whom would become key figures in Canadian soccer.

Senior National Team: Breaking Records and Achieving Milestones

Olivia Smith’s senior international career began with a historic debut. In late October 2019, she was called up to the Canada women’s national soccer team.

She made history by becoming the youngest player ever to debut for the senior national team. Smith’s debut came in a match against Brazil at the Women’s International Tournament in Chongqing, China, where she replaced Jordyn Huitema in the 86th minute. Her second cap came in a game against New Zealand during the same tournament.

Her potential was undeniable, and in 2019, she was named the Canadian Youth International Player of the Year, a testament to her burgeoning talent and impact on the field.

Return To the Canadian Youth Sides

Smith’s international career continued to ascend as she made significant contributions at the 2022 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup and the 2023 CONCACAF Women’s U-20 Championship, where she scored multiple hat-tricks, including standout performances against Martinique and St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Playing At The 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup

The 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup marked another milestone in Smith’s career. Despite being a late addition to the pre-tournament camp, she secured a place in the final squad, making her World Cup debut as a substitute in Canada’s final group stage match against Australia.

Her inclusion at such a young age was a significant achievement and demonstrated her readiness for high-stakes international competition.

Starring at The 2024 CONCACAF Women’s Gold Cup

In 2024, Smith continued to impress on the international stage. She was named to the Canadian squad for the 2024 CONCACAF W Gold Cup, where she made a substantial impact.

Olivia Smith Scored her first senior international goal in Canada’s opening game against El Salvador, she followed up with another goal in the group stage match against Paraguay.

Despite missing the quarter-final due to a concussion, Smith played a crucial role in the semi-final, where Canada was narrowly defeated by the United States in a penalty shootout.

Her performance throughout the tournament earned her the Young Player Award, solidifying her status as one of Canada’s most promising talents.

Looking Ahead

Olivia Smith’s international career is marked by early achievements, record-breaking moments, and a series of notable performances that highlight her as a player to watch.

With her continued dedication and skill, Smith is poised to be a central figure in Canada’s soccer future, inspiring both her teammates and aspiring young athletes around the world.

Idols and Influence in Football

Olivia Smith’s football idols include Marta for her exceptional skill and impact, Jill Scott for her tenacity and leadership, and Pernille Harder for her versatility and attacking prowess. These players have inspired Smith’s playing style and aspirations in football.

Who Does Olivia Smith  Play Like?

Olivia Smith’s playing style is a blend of several renowned midfielders. She shares similarities with Jordyn Huitema and Sam Kerr in her attacking prowess and goal-scoring ability.

Her creativity and vision in midfield are reminiscent of Rose Lavelle, while her composure and dribbling skills echo Andrés Iniesta.

Additionally, her flair and impact in the attacking third resemble Marta. Overall, Olivia Smith is a dynamic and influential midfielder with technical finesse and a strong sense of positioning.

Olivia Smith’s Personal Life

Olivia Smith is of Jamaican, Chilean, and Peruvian descent. In addition to her soccer career, she actively contributes to the sport’s development, including joining the League1 Ontario Women’s Football Subcommittee in 2023.

Conclusion

Olivia Smith’s journey from her early days in Ontario to the top of women’s soccer is a remarkable testament to her skill, dedication, and resilience.

Her rise through the ranks—from local clubs to collegiate soccer, and onto prominent professional teams—highlights her exceptional talent and determination.

As she continues to make her mark both nationally and internationally, Olivia Smith’s future in soccer looks exceptionally bright, promising further achievements and contributions to the game she passionately excels in.