Western United have announced a double deal with the arrival of talented young defensive duo Isabel Dehakiz and Claudia Mihocic for the 2024-25 Ninja A-League season.
Dehakiz and Mihocic both join Western United from NPLW VIC outfit Bulleen Lions.
Named the 2024 NPLW VIC Players’ Player of the Year, Dehakiz has previously played professionally in Colombia while she was on the roster of NWSL giants Portland Thorns as a 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup replacement player.
Click here to secure your Unite Round tickets NOW!
CommBank Young Matildas defender Mihocic is no stranger to the Ninja A-League, having made 16 appearances for Perth Glory.
“We are delighted to bring Izzy and Claudia to the club, further strengthening our talented core of defensive players in our squad,” said head coach Kat Smith.
“Both players have shown their excellence in possession and their strength defensively which will help us in all phases of the game.
“We are looking to play an exciting brand of football, and it’s not just the attackers that will contribute to that.
“All of our defensive players are blessed with supreme talent and ambition and I can’t wait to see them come together.”
Western United will open their 2024-25 season against Wellington Phoenix at Ironbark Fields on November 1.
2024-25 SEASON FIXTURES
FULL FIXTURES: Every match of the Isuzu UTE A-League 24-25 season here
TALKING POINTS: New TV format, byes & everything you need to know from the draw
DERBY DATES: The matches to circle in your calendar now
Dehakiz said: “It feels great to have signed my first A-League contract, especially here at Western.
“That was my goal in coming here, and FC Bulleen gave me a great stepping stone to get there.
“I just can’t wait to meet everyone, to put on the jersey with everyone and fill in whatever role on the field or off the field.”
It has been a busy off-season for Western, who reached the Elimination Final in 2023-24.
Western have signed Chloe Lincoln, Sasha Grove, Alana Cortellino and Philippines international Sara Eggesvik, while re-signing Kahli Johnson, Melissa Taranto, Adriana Taranto, Julia Sardo, Alyssa Dall’Oste, Natalie Picak, Aimee Medwin, Grace Maher and CommBank Matildas star. Chloe Logarzo.
Mihocic added: “I’m very excited to have signed with Western United. Every facet of the team over the past few years has been strong, and I’m really looking forward to hopping into that.
“Ironbark Fields is the perfect place for the fans to come out – the stadium is great, it’s Green and Black. I know the active support are loud on the drums and with the chants.
“That’s the type of culture we want to see at the games, so if everyone can come out that would be amazing.”
