20 Images That Capture Marta’s Greatness
Here's a visual celebration of one of football's most iconic figures, Marta Vieira da Silva.
- Alyana Aguja
- 7 min read
This listicle chronicles the illustrious career of Marta Vieira da Silva, widely regarded as one of the greatest female footballers of all time. Through a carefully selected collection of 20 evocative images, this piece highlights key moments, defining performances, and the indelible influence of Marta on the sport.
1. A Decade-Spanning Dominance: Marta’s Enduring Fire
Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
Even in 2023, the legendary Marta continued to command the field. This image, capturing her in full stride for the Orlando Pride, showcases the enduring power and precision that have defined her illustrious career for over two decades. Her vision and ball control remain as sharp as ever, a testament to her unparalleled dedication to the beautiful game.
2. The Pre-Game Ritual: Focus and Determination
Rob Gray-Imagn Images
Even in the quiet moments before a match, Marta’s greatness shines through. This image from a 2025 warm-up captures her intense focus and dedication, highlighting the meticulous preparation that underpins her consistent world-class performances. It’s a glimpse into the unwavering commitment that has fueled her illustrious career.
3. Leadership Beyond the Ball: Guiding Her Team
Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images
Marta’s influence extends far beyond her incredible individual skill. Here, she’s seen engaging with teammates during a match, demonstrating her vital role as a leader and mentor on the field. Her experience and tactical understanding are invaluable assets, guiding and inspiring those around her.
4. Ageless Agility: Leaving Defenders in Her Wake
Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images
In a dynamic moment from May 3, 2025, at Providence Park, Orlando Pride forward Marta (10) demonstrates her enduring speed and skill, leaving Portland Thorns FC forward Mimi Alidou (26) in her wake during the first half. This image perfectly encapsulates Marta’s ability to dominate the field, a testament to her continued impact even late in her career. It
5. The Striker’s Instinct: Marta Unleashes a Shot
Morgan Tencza-Imagn Images
On April 25, 2025, at Inter&Co Stadium, Orlando Pride forward Marta (10) is captured mid-shot against Angel City FC. This image perfectly illustrates her lethal attacking instinct and incredible power, showcasing why she has consistently been one of the most prolific goal-scorers in the sport’s history. Every strike carries the potential for a highlight-reel finish, a true testament to her enduring skill.
6. The Masterful Touch: Marta’s Ball Control
Morgan Tencza-Imagn Images
This image shows Orlando Pride forward Marta attempting to trap a ball against Angel City FC. It’s a snapshot of her unparalleled technical ability and exquisite first touch, crucial elements that allow her to maintain possession under pressure and orchestrate attacking plays.
7. Eye on Goal: Marta’s Precision Strike
Mike Watters-Imagn Images
From April 19, 2025, at Inter&Co Stadium, this photo captures Orlando Pride forward Marta (10) taking a shot on goal against Washington Spirit defender Esme Morgan (24). It highlights her unwavering focus and the precision that defines her attacking play, often finding the smallest gaps to unleash powerful and accurate shots. This dedication to finding the net is a hallmark of her greatness.
8. Pure Joy: The Celebration of a Goal
Reinhold Matay-Imagn Images
On March 29, 2025, at Inter&Co Stadium, Orlando Pride forward Marta (10) is seen celebrating a goal against San Diego Wave FC. This image radiates the sheer joy and passion that Marta brings to the game, a contagious energy that lifts her teammates and electrifies the crowd. Her celebrations are as iconic as her goals, showcasing the emotional connection she has to the sport.
9. Midfield Maestro: Marta’s Control and Vision
Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
On March 23, 2025, Orlando Pride forward Marta (10) kicked the ball during the first half against Gotham FC. It underscored her incredible versatility and ability to dictate play from various positions on the field, showcasing not just her scoring prowess but also her invaluable contribution to ball distribution and build-up play. Her vision is as vital as her feet.
10. The Imminent Threat: Marta Prepares to Strike
Russell Lansford-Imagn Images
On March 7, 2025, at Inter&Co Stadium, Orlando Pride forward Marta (10) is captured in the act of taking a shot against the Washington Spirit. This image conveys the constant threat she poses to opposing defenses, her presence alone forcing teams to adjust their strategies. Even a routine shot attempt from Marta commands attention and respect.
11. Champion’s Embrace: Lifting the NWSL Trophy
Kylie Graham-Imagn Images
On November 23, 2024, at CPKC Stadium, this iconic image shows Orlando Pride forward Marta (10) celebrating after winning the 2024 NWSL Championship match. It’s a powerful testament to her enduring impact and leadership, proving that even in the latter stages of her career, she remains a driving force behind championship-winning teams. This moment solidifies her legacy as a winner.
12. The Victor’s Roar: Celebrating a Historic Win
Amy Kontras-Imagn Images
Another memorable shot from November 23, 2024, at CPKC Stadium, features Orlando Pride forward Marta (10) celebrating after defeating the Washington Spirit in the 2024 NWSL Championship. This image captures the raw emotion and triumph of a hard-fought victory, showcasing Marta’s unwavering determination and the joy of achieving the pinnacle of NWSL success. It’s a moment of pure elation.
13. Unyielding Pressure: Marta’s Offensive Drive
Dennis Schneidler-Imagn Images
On October 20, 2024, at Red Bull Arena, Orlando Pride forward Marta (10) battled NJ/NY Gotham FC defender Sam Hiatt (21) for the ball. It exemplified her relentless offensive pressure and willingness to challenge defenders, constantly seeking opportunities to create chances for her team. Her intensity on the ball is unmatched.
14. Aerial Dominance: Marta’s Presence in the Air
Russell Lansford-Imagn Images
On October 6, 2024, at Inter&Co Stadium, Orlando Pride forward Marta (10) and Washington Spirit defender Annaig Butel (5) attempt to head the ball. This image highlights Marta’s often understated aerial ability and her commitment to winning duels across all areas of the pitch, adding another dimension to her multifaceted game.
15. The Dribbling Dynamo: Marta’s Signature Move
David Gonzales-Imagn Images
Captured on September 20, 2024, at PayPal Park, this image shows Orlando Pride forward Marta (10) dribbling the ball. It’s a classic representation of her mesmerizing close control and ability to glide past defenders, a skill that has defined her play for decades and consistently created scoring opportunities.
16. Contesting Every Ball: Marta’s Relentless Effort
Daniel Bartel-Imagn Images
On September 8, 2024, at SeatGeek Stadium, Orlando Pride forward Marta (10) battles Chicago Red Stars midfielder Cari Roccaro (4) for a header. This photo emphasizes her relentless effort and willingness to compete for every single ball, showcasing the tireless work ethic that underpins her legendary status.
17. In the Thick of It: Marta’s All-Around Game
Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
This image from August 23, 2024, at Shell Energy Stadium, shows Orlando Pride forward Marta (10) in action against the Houston Dash. It serves as a powerful reminder of her constant involvement in the game, whether initiating attacks, supporting teammates, or defensively tracking back, underscoring her comprehensive impact on the field.
18. Olympic Duel in Beijing
CSPA-Imagn Images
In a hard-fought Olympic group stage match, Marta fearlessly takes on Germany, a testament to her unwavering drive to compete at the highest level and secure victory for Brazil. Even in a 0-0 tie, her presence on the field was undeniable, showcasing her relentless pursuit of greatness.
19. Dominating the WPS Stage
Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
Marta’s dazzling dribbling for the Los Angeles Sol against FC Gold Pride highlights her individual brilliance and offensive prowess that made her a dominant force in the Women’s Professional Soccer league, leading her team to a 2-0 victory. This image encapsulates her ability to take control of a game and create opportunities, leaving defenders in her wake.
20. World Cup Warrior in Action
Witters Sport-Imagn Images
Marta exhibits her signature skill and intensity during a crucial 2011 Women’s World Cup match against Australia, demonstrating why she is considered one of the most dynamic and influential players in the history of the tournament. Her relentless movement and determination were on full display, showcasing her commitment to leading Brazil on the world stage.