Super Falcons iconic forward and six-time African Player of the Year, Asisat Oshoala, has completed a sensational transfer to Saudi Women’s Premier League giants Al Hilal.
Oshoalal Joins a growing Nigerian Contingent in Saudi Arabia, links up with fellow Nigerian stars Ashleigh Plumptre and Francisca Ordega,
She signs a two-year deal after leaving National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) side Bay FC who confirmed the transfer of the Nigerian International.
“Bay FC and Saudi Arabia club Al-Hilal have agreed to terms on a transfer for Asisat Oshoala. Thank you for everything you’ve given to this club”
Asisat Oshoala Swaps USA for Saudi Arabia
The 30-year-old striker, who joined Bay FC in February 2024 ahead of their inaugural season, underwent her medical in Saudi Arabia on Monday night before being unveiled by Al Hilal.
This transfer adds a new chapter in her illustrious career, which has seen her feature for some of the biggest clubs in Europe, Asia, and North America.
Oshoala missed Bay FC’s 2-1 defeat to Angel City on Monday night, fueling speculation that a move was imminent.
A Legacy at Bay FC
Oshoala joined Bay FC from FC Barcelona Femeni, where she won back-to-back UEFA Women’s Champions League titles.
In her debut NWSL season, she became a key figure, scoring a team-high seven goals and famously netting Bay FC’s first-ever franchise goal on March 17, 2024, against Angel City.
Bay FC sporting director Matt Potter paid tribute to Oshoala’s impact:
“Asisat has been an incredibly important part of Bay FC history, not only with her impact on the pitch but also through the energy, professionalism, and kindness she brought every day.”
“She is a world-class player and an even better person, and we are grateful for everything she contributed to our club in its first season.”
In total, she made 38 appearances for Bay FC, scoring eight goals and providing an assist.
Challenges in the NWSL
Despite her bright start, Oshoala’s minutes dwindled during the 2025 season. Bay FC head coach Albertin Montoya attributed her reduced role to the league’s physical style and tactical demands.
“In this league you have to [adapt], and that’s something that we’re working with her,” Montoya said.
“So when she gets that and has the confidence in front of the goal to score goals and helps us defensively, and that’s why with Caroline Conti, she gives us something else defensively.”
Her move to Al Hilal offers a fresh opportunity to revive her career and regain her reputation as one of the most lethal strikers in women’s football.
A Glittering Career
Oshoala’s journey from Ikorodu, Nigeria, to becoming one of Africa’s greatest footballers is legendary.
She first rose to prominence with Rivers Angels before stints at Liverpool, Arsenal, Chinese side Dalian Quanjian, and Barcelona, where she won numerous league and Champions League titles.
She was Africa’s Women’s Player of the Year six times (2014, 2016, 2017, 2019, 2022, and 2023) and became the first African woman ever nominated for the Ballon d’Or Féminin.
At international level, Oshoala helped Nigeria’s Super Falcons secure their record-extending 10th WAFCON title in Morocco in 2022.
