Nigerian forward Chiamaka Okwuchukwu has signed a one-year deal with San Diego Wave FC in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL).
The 19-year-old joins the American club from Nigeria Women’s Premier League side Rivers Angels.
This follows her remarkable performances at the 2024 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Colombia, where she scored twice and provided one assist in four matches.
The transfer is pending a medical examination, International Transfer Certificate (ITC), and P1 Visa approval.
Wave’s Sporting Director Welcomes Okwuchukwu
San Diego Wave’s Sporting Director, Camille Ashton, is excited about the addition of the young striker:
“Her signing is the latest example of our intention to add promising young players to the roster.”
“With her skillset, we believe Chiamaka will complement our current attacking players very well and be a key contributor to the team.”
Okwuchukwu will occupy an international slot on San Diego’s 2025 roster.
Career Highlights
Represented Nigeria in two FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cups (2022 in Costa Rica and 2024 in Colombia).
Helped Nigeria remain unbeaten in the group stage of the 2022 U-20 World Cup and advance to the quarterfinals.
Emerged as a standout performer for Rivers Angels in the Nigerian league.
Nigerians in the NWSL
Okwuchukwu joins an elite group of Nigerian players excelling in the NWSL, including:
Asisat Oshoala (BAY FC)
Uchenna Kanu (Racing Louisville)
Michelle Alozie (Houston Dash)
Nicole Payne (Portland Thorns)
Her move underscores the growing impact of Nigerian talent in international women’s football.
San Diego Wave’s Ambitions
Founded in 2021, San Diego Wave FC continues to strengthen its roster ahead of the 2025 NWSL season
