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Huang stands tall on both ends of pitch
China PR centre-back Huang Jiaxin is showing huge promise at Poland 2026 as a defensive stopper who is also a dangerous goalscoring threat.
FIFA
One of the curiosities about the adidas Golden Boot race at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Poland 2026™ is that two defenders are currently in the reckoning for the coveted prize.
Sitting just behind the trio of Spain forward Celia Segura, Argentina's Annika Paz and England full-back Rachel Maltby, who each have four goals, sit fellow La Rojita forward Marisa Garcia and China PR centre-back Huang Jiaxin on three.
Huang surged to the top of the standings early in the tournament with her devastating 12-minute hat-trick in the 5-0 victory against New Caledonia. Although she did not find the net in the goalless draw with Nigeria, she showed her attacking intent as the designated free-kick taker, with two efforts that sailed just over the bar.
The imposing 5ft 10in centre-back takes great pride in being effective on both ends of the field.
Video: New Caledonia v China PR | Group F | FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup 2026™ | Highlights
"Of course, being a defender is my position and is my responsibility to help the team. Also, I am hoping to help the team get more opportunity [as an attacking threat as well]," Huang told FIFA. "When I was a younger player, I played as a forward as well, so I know the transition between defence and attack."
Has she ever been tempted to play as an attacker for China PR? "Maybe," she added with a smile.
Huang also earned high praise from China PR coach Wang Jun for her tireless efforts as an attacking defender.
"She has own characteristics, she can also play as a defender and as a forward. In the future, I hope that she can play in Europe and bring her characteristics and skills to the senior national team," he told FIFA.
Dreams of playing at FIFA Women's World Cup
So impressive have been the performances of the 20-year Shanghai Shengli WFC defender that it seems just a matter of time before she is called up to the senior China PR team.
Huang, naturally, has aspirations to play in a FIFA Women's World Cup™ one day, with Brazil 2027 on the horizon following China PR's qualification.
"To be part of the senior national women's team is my dream, so I hope one day I can represent them," she added.