Oihane Hernandez comes to Orlando Pride to distribute from the back | OneFootball

The Orlando Pride continues blasting blockbuster roster additions while preparing to take the pitch in 2025.

The Orlando Pride has firmed up its record-setting roster. They re-signed team Captain Marta. Then they extended the contracts of defenders Emily Sams and Cori Dyke.

But the Pride has gone beyond that goal and expanded their roster. They acquired talent from around the world to evaluate and work in the Pride system.

These acquisitions include Zambian international Prisca Chilufya, plus short-term prospects midfielder Aryssa Mahrt and goalkeeper DeAira Jackson.

But what raised the most stir as the team trains for the 2025 season is their latest signing. Real Madrid Femenino has transferred defender Oihane Hernandez. She signed a two-year contract with the Orlando Pride through 2026 with an option for 2027.

In the short time that Hernandez has had to get to know her teammates, she’s already recognized as a welcome member of the squad. As soon as she gets on the pitch working against Pride opponents, she’ll be even more welcome.

Pride Vice President and Sporting Director Haley Carter said Hernandez has extraordinary tactical understanding and ability to read the game. She demonstrates defensive organization and talent for distribution from the back.

Carter refers to distribution as a vital procedure of championship squads. It occurs when a team defender possesses the ball in their defensive third and aims to pass it out of the back.

Their effectiveness isn’t measured by completing a pass. It’s meeting the greater goal of unbalancing their opponents. Once the ball is passed, it’s possible to maintain space and create chances in the attacking third.

Real Madrid CF v Levante UD - Liga F | Angel Martinez/GettyImages

Hernandez demonstrated her talent most effectively on the Spanish Women’s National Team, winning the 2023 Women’s World Cup Trophy. Pride scouts have the most notes on her performances there.

Her finest work in six matches came against Zambia. In that match, she tallied a dribble, two interceptions, and five tackles. Throughout the six matches, she averaged .5 key passes and .7 dispossessions.

Watch for Oihane Hernandez making plays for the Orlando Pride this season. She’ll be one of the defenders distributing from the back.