Stanislaus State’s Alexia Estrada has been called up to represent the Guatemalan women’s national soccer team in the CONCACAF Women’s World Cup qualifiers. This marks the second time in Estrada’s career where she has the opportunity to showcase her talents on the international stage. 

“I am so thankful for the opportunity to represent the national team, and it’s the greatest honor to defend the blue and white against other world competitors,” said Estrada. 

Estrada, a junior goalkeeper who transferred to Stan State in December of 2021, was able to rack two starts for Guatemala in February. Those starts accounted for two wins for the Guatemalan side, as well as two shutouts for Estrada. 

“Alexia is a phenomenal goalkeeper with the skill set to play at the international level,” said Gabrial Bolton, Stan State women’s soccer head coach. “She is getting to play on the international stage, which is an incredible experience that she has earned through her hard work and commitment to her craft.” 

Bolton believes that Estrada has handled the past few months incredibly well, as she has had to adjust to being a full-time student at a new school and as an active participant in the soccer program’s spring league.

“Balancing two international call ups this spring has not been easy, but Alexia is a very organized person and strong student,” Bolton said. “Additionally, her professors have been incredibly supportive. Alexia’s Stan State community is incredibly proud of her.” 

Guatemala currency sits atop of Group B with two matches remaining. As group play wraps up, the squad is looking for a secure six points to advance to the CONCACAF Women’s Championships. The Women’s Championships are an 8-team tournament that will determine who will represent North and Central America in next year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup, which will take place in Australia and New Zealand.

“As a team, we know what we need to do for the next games and we have the passion and pride that we need in order to compete,” Estrada said. 

Estrada and Guatemala will host Saint Kitts and Nevis on Friday at 2 p.m. The national team will proceed to clash with Costa Rica on April 12, who are the current favorites to win the qualifying group and contend in the World Cup.

All matches can be viewed live and on replay on Paramount Plus in the United States. A full schedule of remaining CONCACAF qualifying matches can be found here.