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SportsBenfica signs 18-year-old Nigerian forward Janet Akekoromowei through 2028
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Benfica has officially announced the signing of 18-year-old Nigerian forward Seimeyeha Janet Akekoromowei on a contract valid until 2028, with an option for two additional seasons. The young striker arrives from the Nigerian Women's Football League, where she played for Nasarawa Amazons in the 2024/25 season, scoring 13 goals in 19 matches and earning the league's MVP award. A product of the Asisat Oshoala Academy, Akekoromowei has represented Nigeria at the U-20 Women's World Cup in Colombia and made her senior national team debut in a friendly against Algeria. She cited the influence of fellow Nigerian and former Benfica player Christy Ucheibe in her decision to join the club. Akekoromowei expressed happiness and a commitment to helping Benfica win trophies, marking her first experience in European football and her first club outside Nigeria.
Source report
The 18-year-old forward has signed a contract with the Eagles, with an option for two more seasons.
Seimeyeha Janet Akekoromowei is a new addition to Benfica for the upcoming season. The 18-year-old Nigerian forward signed a contract valid until 2028, with an option for two additional seasons.
The young player arrives in Seixal for her debut in European football, which will also be her first experience outside Nigeria, where she last played for Bayelsa Queens. In 2024/25, Janet Akekoromowei made her mark in the Nigerian League playing for Nasarawa Amazons, scoring 13 goals in 19 games. These numbers placed her among the top scorers in the competition and earned her the MVP award for the season.
Trained at the Asisat Oshoala Academy, Janet Akekoromowei stood out early in Nigerian football and in her national team's youth ranks, particularly in 2024. That year, she participated in the U-20 Women's World Cup in Colombia and also joined the senior Nigerian national team for a friendly match against Algeria.
She shared a locker room with Christy Ucheibe and, in statements to Benfica's official website, acknowledged the influence the former Eagles player had on her decision to join the club.
"Christy Ucheibe plays for the senior national team [of Nigeria]. I saw her playing for Benfica and winning titles. I want to achieve the same. She told me many good things about Benfica. She loves the club and told me I have to be humble, chase my dreams, and be a good person."
"I am happy! Benfica is a great club. It's a privilege to be here to help the team win trophies and do beautiful things. I want to be part of this family."
She concluded with a promise: "I will give my best, help my teammates, and achieve our season goals."
Source
RecordRegional
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Janet Akekoromowei Extends Benfica Contract Until 2028