Christy Ucheibe's title run headlines big weekend for Nigerian women abroad
Nigerian players once again stamped their authority across the global stage over the weekend, delivering defining moments from Portugal to France, England, Italy, and the United States.
In Portugal, Christy Ucheibe continued to build an extraordinary legacy with Benfica Feminino, playing her part in a commanding 3–1 victory over SC Braga to seal the 2025/26 Liga BPI title. The triumph marked Benfica’s sixth consecutive league crown and extended their unbeaten run to 16 matches this season, with two games still left to play. For Ucheibe, it is another chapter in what has become a dominant and consistent spell at the club.
Over in France, Jennifer Echegini provided the cutting edge for Paris Saint-Germain Féminine, opening the scoring in a 2–0 away win against FC Fleury 91. Her stunning long-range effort in the 80th minute was set up by Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade, who made an instant impact off the bench. Sakina Karchaoui soon added the second to wrap up the result. The goal was Echegini’s third in the league this season, bringing her tally to seven goal contributions, while Ajibade notched her third.
In England, Chiamaka Nnadozie delivered a composed and decisive performance between the sticks as Brighton & Hove Albion Women edged Manchester City 3–2. The Nigerian goalkeeper pulled off four crucial saves, helping her side secure a statement win, their first against a top-four opponent this season.
Across the Atlantic, the spotlight belonged to Chioma Okafor, who took a significant step in her career with her professional debut for North Carolina Courage. Coming on in the 62nd minute of their 1–0 win over Houston Dash, the Super Falcons forward marked her long-awaited arrival after signing a three-year deal. Fresh off an impressive college career with the University of Connecticut Huskies, Okafor described the moment as “surreal and deeply rewarding,” a fitting reflection of her journey to the professional ranks.
Elsewhere in the NWSL, Michelle Alozie, featured from the start as Chicago Stars FC, secured a 2–0 win over Boston Legacy FC. Gift Monday made a substitute appearance in Washington Spirit’s emphatic 4–0 victory against Kansas City Current, while Nicole Payne returned to the Orlando Pride matchday squad for the first time since recovering from injury, though she remained unused.
In Italy, Shukurat Oladipo played her role in a disciplined defensive display as AS Roma Women edged Juventus 1–0 away from home in a tightly contested Serie A Femminile encounter. Rinsola Oladipo was also named among the substitutes but did not feature.
From title triumphs to breakthrough debuts, it was yet another weekend that underscored the growing influence and excellence of Nigerian talent across women’s football worldwide.
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