Jennifer Echegini, the Nigeria forward who recently joined French giants Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), has described her rapid progression in professional football as a “fairy tale”.
The Netherlands-born player, who signed with PSG from Juventus on a contract until 2027, has already scored three goals and provided one assist in the French women’s top-flight league this season.
PSG is currently second in the league, five points behind record European champions Lyon, their next opponents.
A Remarkable Journey
Echegini’s journey has been marked by extraordinary achievements. After leaving her birthplace for England, she moved to the United States in 2019, where she joined Mississippi State University and spent two years with the Bulldogs.
She later transferred to Florida State University, where she won the University Championship in 2023, scoring twice in the final to secure a 2-1 victory over Clemson.
“In two years, I went from nothing to winning the title of best American prospect. It was like a fairy tale,” Echegini told L’Équipe.
Following her collegiate success, Echegini moved to Juventus in Italy, where she scored 10 goals in 14 Serie A appearances.
Her performances caught the attention of PSG, who secured her services in 2024.
Rising With the Super Falcons
Echegini has also been making waves on the international stage with Nigeria. She featured in three matches at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and scored Nigeria’s lone goal against Japan during the 2024 Paris Olympics women’s football tournament.
Reflecting on her Nigerian heritage, Echegini said:
“When I was little, we went there [Nigeria] every year as a family until I was 11.”
“My parents speak to each other in the local dialect; they made us eat jollof rice. We go to the Nigerian Christian church.”
“As an adult, I only go with the national team. I wasn’t born there, so I always discover a lot of things when I am there. It’s an interesting culture.”
Key Roles Ahead
Echegini is poised to play significant roles for both PSG and the Super Falcons this year.
While PSG is determined to dethrone Lyon and secure the league title, Nigeria is aiming to win their 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title at the 2024 tournament in Morocco.
(Credit: Nigerian Football)
