Peruvian Women's Championship
The Peruvian Women's Championship, or Liga Femenina, is the top tier of women's football in Peru. Run by the Peruvian Football Federation (FPF), it features Peru's premier clubs, fostering growth in a sport overshadowed by men's football but surging in popularity. It's a key breeding ground for national team talents.
History and foundation
Launched in 2007 as a pilot, the league formalized in 2009 with Universitario's inaugural title. The 2010s brought professionalization; by 2018, it expanded to 12 teams. COVID halted 2020, but Alianza Lima's 2021 triumph broke Universitario's streak. Fun fact: In 2019, a league-heavy U-20 squad reached the South American Cup final for the first time.
Tournament format
The format includes a double round-robin (22 matches for 12 teams), with top-4 advancing to playoffs: semis and a final. Season runs March to November; 2023 added Copa Femenina. Matches are 90 minutes, emphasizing skill and pace.
Interesting facts
Average goals per game: 2.8, spiking to 4.5 in derbies. Top scorers: Scarlett Rodriguez (Alianza Lima, 45 goals), Giselle Coyia (Universitario, 38). Stars include forward Miriam Carrasco (national team captain), midfielder Sofia Promesas (Sporting Cristal) for her dribbling, and exporter Catalina Perez to Europe.