Goalkeeper Léa Palacio-Tellier has clinched the title of Canada Soccer’s 2025 Futsal Player of the Year after guiding Canada to victory in the inaugural FIFA Women’s Futsal World Cup. Hailing from Montreal and aged 28, she was recognized as the top goalkeeper at the 2025 CONCACAF W Futsal Championship in May. During the group stage, the Canadian captain only allowed four goals.
Canada advanced by overcoming Mexico in a penalty shootout during the semifinals and triumphed over Panama in the final match. Palacio-Tellier was a starter in all three of Canada’s World Cup games last month in the Philippines.
“Lea exhibited exceptional leadership throughout our campaign,” stated Canada futsal coach Alexandre Da Rocha. “Following her Golden Gloves win at the CONCACAF W Championship, she maintained remarkable consistency during the World Cup. Her performance in the initial two matches was crucial for our results.”
Da Rocha further emphasized, “Her presence provided a sense of security for the players ahead of her, and her consistent displays over the year validate why she deserves this honor.” The recipient was selected by the Canadian futsal team’s staff.
Previous recipients of the award include Loic Kwemi in 2024, Safwane Mlah in 2023, Daniel Chamale in 2022, Joshua Lemos in 2021, Mohamed Farsi in 2020, Luis Rocha in 2019, Jacob Orellana in 2018, and Nazim Belguendouz in 2017.