Sydney FC have added Panama international forward Riley Tanner to their Ninja A-League squad for the 2025-26 campaign.
The 25-year-old US-born left winger is back in Australia for the second time in 2025 after playing a pivotal role in Panama’s 1-0 friendly win over the CommBank Matildas in Western Australia in July.
Prior to the WA tour, Tanner played in all three of Panama’s 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup group stage games against Brazil, France and Jamaica on Australian soil.
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Tanner arrives at the Sky Blues from USL Super League club Spokane Zephyr FC; the United States side were also home to fellow Sydney signing Jodi Ulkekul last season, with the two forwards set to reunite in the Harbour City for the Ninja A-League 2025-26 campaign.
Sydney FC head coach Ante Juric says Tanner’s international experience and dangerous attacking traits will help the pacey forward add “another dimension” to the Sky Blues’ attack.
“Riley is a very exciting addition for us,” Juric said.
“She’s played at a high level both internationally with Panama and in the United States, and she’s shown her ability to stand out against some of the best players in the world.
“She has great pace, technical ability and a natural eye for goal.
“Her work ethic and the way she combines well with teammates are some of her stand out qualities and she’s exactly the kind of player who can give us another dimension in attack this season.”
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Tanner is the 11th new addition to Sydney’s squad this season, as they look to get back into the Finals Series places after missing out on the post-season for the first time in Ninja A-League history last term.
Helping her new club achieve that feat is one of Tanner’s top priorities as she returns to the city where she faced France in Panama’s opening Women’s World Cup group-stage game in 2023.
“Playing in the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 in Australia was one of the proudest moments of my life and something I’ll never forget,” Tanner said.
“To represent Panama on that stage was incredible, and it gave me a taste of just how passionate and knowledgeable the fans are here.
“I want to challenge myself in the A-League Women and help Sydney FC fight for another Championship.
“My attributes are my speed, creativity, and ability to take on defenders one-on-one, and I’ll bring energy and determination to every game.
“I can’t wait to meet my new teammates, work with Ante, and play in front of the amazing Sky Blue members.”
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