Beatriz Zaneratto João commands attention as one of Brazil’s most accomplished forwards. Born in Araraquara, São Paulo, she stands 1.76 meters tall and brings power to the attack. Her current role with Kansas City Current showcases her enduring talent in the National Women’s Soccer League.
This skilled player launched her professional journey at age 13 with Ferroviária. Her career spans nearly two decades across three continents, featuring championship-winning teams in Brazil, South Korea, and China. She consistently delivers impact performances that define her style.
The forward’s international resume includes 111 appearances for the Brazil national team with 38 goals. This makes her one of the program’s most prolific scorers. She represented her country at four FIFA Women’s World Cups and two Olympic Games.
Her journey from teenage prodigy to established star reflects remarkable dedication. She continues to demonstrate adaptability across different leagues and playing styles. This veteran leader maintains consistent excellence that inspires the next generation.
Breaking Down Bia Zaneratto’s Rise to Stardom
The path to stardom started with a bold move to a professional team at just 13 years old. This early start forged a resilient competitor, shaping the technical foundation for a remarkable career.
Formative Years and Youth Breakthrough
Training with Ferroviária against older players accelerated her development. Her talent shone globally at the 2008 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. At 14, she was Brazil’s youngest squad member and a noted future star.
A transfer to powerhouse club Santos in 2010 placed her among champions. She immediately contributed to winning the Copa Libertadores Femenina and the Campeonato Paulista.
International Debut and Early Accolades
Her senior national team debut came in a 3-0 win over Chile in May 2011. This performance secured her spot for the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Germany.
There, she scored in a group stage victory, cementing her status as an international player before turning 18. These early experiences built an unshakable foundation.
| Year | Event | Team | Achievement |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2007 | Professional Debut | Ferroviária | Joined at age 13 |
| 2008 | U-17 World Cup | Brazil U-17 | Youngest squad member |
| 2010 | Club Transfer | Santos | Won Copa Libertadores |
| 2011 | Senior Debut & World Cup | Brazil National Team | Scored in first World Cup |
Club Career: Triumphs Across Borders
From South Korea to China and the United States, her club achievements reflect remarkable adaptability. This global journey showcases a player who delivers results regardless of league or culture.
Success in Brazilian Football and Transition Abroad
The 2013 move to South Korea’s Incheon Hyundai Steel Red Angels began seven dominant seasons. She won seven consecutive WK League championships from 2013 to 2019.
Her 78 goals in 103 appearances established her as a feared forward. A dramatic 123rd-minute equalizer in the 2015 final forced penalties, securing another title.
Dominance in the WK League and Chinese Success
In 2017, she achieved a rare double as top scorer and assist provider. This demonstrated complete offensive mastery.
A 2020 move to China brought immediate success. She scored seven goals in nine matches to help Wuhan Jianghan University win the league title.
Latest Chapter with Kansas City Current
Kansas City Current signed the player in January 2024. She made an instant impact with a goal in the season opener on March 16.
Her brace against Bay FC on April 20, 2024 highlighted her scoring ability. These performances earned her NWSL Player of the Month honors for March/April 2024.
The forward recorded five goals and four assists in 16 appearances before a November injury. Kansas City removed her from the injury list in March 2025, clearing her return.
Bia Zaneratto: Impact and Achievements
Major tournaments have consistently featured her goal-scoring prowess and creative playmaking. This player’s international record spans four World Cups and two Olympic Games.
Record-Breaking Performances and Key Matches
At the 2016 Rio Olympics, she scored three goals including one in the bronze medal match. Her performance earned international praise for lighting up the tournament.
The 2020 Olympics showcased her versatility with both a goal and assist against China. She continued this form at the 2023 World Cup, scoring against Panama.
Her 38 goals in 111 national team appearances demonstrate remarkable consistency. The 2018 Copa América victory stands as her major international trophy.
| Tournament | Year | Goals | Key Contribution |
|---|---|---|---|
| Olympic Games | 2016 | 3 | Bronze medal match goal |
| Copa América | 2018 | Multiple | Tournament victory |
| Olympic Games | 2020 | 1 goal, 1 assist | Opener against China |
| World Cup | 2023 | 1 | Score against Panama |
Awards, Honors, and Fan Campaigns
2021 brought a sweep of individual honors including top scorer and best player awards. The IFFHS recognized her among South America’s best players that year.
Palmeiras supporters voted her “Best Player” at their inaugural awards ceremony. Fan campaigns like #FicaZaneratto demonstrated strong supporter connections.
Her victory in the Copa GamHer esports tournament raised funds for COVID-19 relief. Musician Marlon Góes celebrated her style with the song “Hit da Bia Zaneratto.”
Today’s Spotlight: Legacy and Future Endeavors
The recent clearance from the season-ending injury list signals a new chapter for both player and team. Kansas City Current removed Bia Zaneratto just before their third match of the 2025 season. This news arrives as the team posts back-to-back wins, including a shutout victory.
A foot injury in November 2024 interrupted her productive campaign of five goals and four assists. Another setback came with a stress fracture before the 2024 Summer Olympics. Missing her third Olympic Games was particularly painful after previous appearances.
Her legacy with Brazil’s national team remains secure across four World Cup tournaments. The veteran brings leadership to Kansas City while maintaining international status. At 31, she continues to deliver in high-stakes moments for club and country.
The next chapter centers on championship ambitions with Kansas City Current. Recent trophies establish the city as a dominant force in women’s soccer. Supporters recognize her ability to change matches with crucial goals and assists.
