Nigerian youngster Janet Akekoromowei has completed a transfer to Portuguese champions Benfica, marking a significant step in her rapidly growing football career.

The talented forward joins the European giants from Nigeria Women Football League side Bayelsa Queens, where she established herself as one of the country’s brightest young stars.

Her impressive performances in domestic football attracted attention from clubs outside Nigeria, with Benfica eventually securing her signature.

Akekoromowei enjoyed a remarkable campaign in the NWFL, earning the league’s Most Valuable Player award after consistently delivering outstanding displays.

Her pace, technical ability and eye for goal made her one of the standout players in the competition and increased interest in her services.

The 18-year-old had previously been tipped for a move to Spanish powerhouse Barcelona. However, those plans were interrupted after she suffered an injury while representing Nigeria on international duty earlier this year, delaying her anticipated move to European football.

Despite that setback, the striker remained one of Nigeria’s most highly rated young prospects and has now secured an opportunity to continue her development with one of Portugal’s top clubs.

Akekoromowei has also represented Nigeria at youth level, featuring for the Falconets during the 2024 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Colombia.

She made three appearances at the tournament, gaining valuable experience on the international stage against some of the world’s best young talents.

Her performances have also earned her a place in the senior Super Falcons setup, highlighting the confidence national team coaches have in her ability to compete at the highest level.

The move to Benfica presents a new challenge for the promising striker as she looks to establish herself in European football.

Playing for the Portuguese champions will provide her with opportunities to compete in domestic competitions and potentially the UEFA Women’s Champions League.

Many Nigerian football fans will be watching closely as Akekoromowei begins this exciting chapter, hoping she can continue her impressive rise and become another success story for Nigerian women’s football on the international stage.