Nigerian teenage striker Seimeyeha Janet Akekoromowei has commenced training with Portuguese women’s champions SL Benfica Feminino after completing her move to the club on a long-term contract.
The former Hallelujah FC Ladies forward has also been handed the No. 24 jersey by the Portuguese giants following the completion of her transfer, which will keep her at the club until 2028.
Akekoromowei’s move to Benfica marks the end of a difficult period in her career. Over the last 18 months, the youngster endured a series of setbacks, including an injury, a failed transfer to Spanish giants Barcelona and a passport controversy that dominated headlines earlier this year.
Despite the challenges, the Nigerian forward has now settled into life in Portugal and is determined to make the most of the opportunity at one of Europe’s top women’s clubs.
Speaking after her first training session, the teenager expressed delight at joining her new teammates and beginning a fresh chapter in her career.
“I am back, better and ready to give my best to the best team in the world, Benfica. Training was good today. I met the coaches and my teammates, and it is a great privilege to begin a new chapter of my life here,” she said.
Akekoromowei is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s brightest young female football prospects, and expectations will be high as she looks to establish herself at Benfica ahead of the new season.