Falconets forward to join Benfica on long-term deal

Falconets forward Janet Akekoromowei is close to completing a long-term move to Portuguese champions Benfica. completesports.com information.

The transfer represents a major step forward in the 18-year-old’s career after she recovered from a serious injury that temporarily stalled her dream of playing in Europe.

Akekoromowei suffered the injury during the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifier between Nigeria and Senegal in Abeokuta in February, forcing her to call off her potential move abroad.

Before the setback, the highly-rated striker had been close to sealing his move to Spanish giants Barcelona Femení.

Also read: Nigerian-born striker’s transfer crashes after failed medical

Once fully recovered, Akekoromowei is ready to embark on the next chapter of her career with Benfica, one of Europe’s leading women’s clubs.

The prolific striker enjoyed a notable campaign in 2025, winning the Nigerian Women’s Football League (NWFL) Most Valuable Player award after a series of standout performances for Bayelsa Queens.

She was also a member of Nigeria’s Falconets team at the 2024 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Colombia, where she appeared in three matches.

Despite his young age, Akekoromowei has already broken into the Super Falcons and earned senior international caps, underlining his status as one of Nigeria’s brightest attacking prospects.

By Adeboye Amosu