After her brace against Aston Villa on Saturday, Alessia Russo is firmly in the spotlight.
But how much do you actually know about Arsenal and England’s star striker? Here are five facts about one of women’s football’s biggest names.
1) She Scored One of the Most Iconic Goals in Women’s Football History
If you watched Euro 2022, you already know about this one.
Alessia Russo’s audacious back-heel finish against Sweden in the semi-finals not only helped England reach the final, but it also won her the Goal of the Tournament award.
2) She Holds an England Football Record
In 2021, Alessia Russo scored a hat-trick in just 11 minutes during England’s 20-0 demolition of Latvia. It’s the fastest ever hat-trick by an England player, male or female.
3) Russo Played College Football in America
Before making her name in the WSL, Russo played college football in the United States for the North Carolina Tar Heels. There, she lined up alongside now-Arsenal and England teammate Lotte Wubben-Moy.
4) Her Roots Go Back to Sicily
Despite being born and raised in Maidstone, Kent, Russo’s heritage is firmly Italian.
Her grandfather made the journey to England from Aragona – a small town in Sicily – in the 1950s.
Her full name is Alessia Mia Teresa Russo.
5) She Comes From a Super Sporty Family
Russo comes from seriously athletic stock.
Her father, Mario, was a record-breaking goalscorer in non-league football, while her brother, Luca, competed at a high level in track and field, specialising in the 800 and 1,500m.
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