Janet Akekoromowei joins Benfica after starring for Bayelsa Queens, with the 18-year-old Falconets striker taking a major step in her career

Nigeria women’s football prospect Janet Akekoromowei has completed a move to Portuguese champions Benfica, marking a significant milestone in the career of the teenage Falconets striker.

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The 18-year-old forward joined Benfica from Bayelsa Queens, a leading club in the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL), after an impressive domestic campaign that established her as one of the country’s brightest young talents.

Akekoromowei was named the NWFL Most Valuable Player last year following a standout season, attracting attention from clubs across Europe.

The transfer represents another major step for Nigerian women’s football, with the young striker moving to one of Portugal’s most successful women’s teams and gaining the opportunity to compete at a higher level.

The move comes after Akekoromowei was previously linked with Spanish giants Barcelona, although that proposed transfer collapsed after she suffered an injury while on international duty in February.

Despite that setback, the forward continued her development and secured a move to Benfica, where she will look to build on the form that made her one of the most highly rated young players in Nigeria.

Akekoromowei was part of the Nigeria Falconets squad at the 2024 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Colombia, where she featured in three matches during the tournament.

She has also earned recognition at senior international level after receiving a call-up to represent the Super Falcons, further underlining her growing reputation.

The striker’s arrival adds attacking depth to a Benfica side that has established itself as a dominant force in Portuguese women’s football.

The club’s continued investment in emerging talent has made it an attractive destination for promising players seeking European experience.

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For Akekoromowei, the move offers an opportunity to test herself against stronger opposition, develop her game and continue her progression towards becoming a key figure for Nigeria at international level.