Football star Asizat Oshoala transfers to Al-Hilal in the Saudi women's football league, moving from Bay FC.
In a surprising turn of events, Nigerian international Asisat Oshoala has bid farewell to Bay FC, the San Francisco Bay Area team she joined ahead of their inaugural season in 2024. Oshoala's departure comes as she signs a two-year contract with Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal.
Before joining Bay FC, Oshoala had a successful stint at Barcelona, where she won two Women's Champions League titles. Her time with Bay FC, however, was equally significant. In her first year with the team, she scored a team-high seven goals, including Bay FC's first franchise goal on March 17, 2024, in the 17th minute of a match against Angel City.
Oshoala's departure from Bay FC is a transfer from the National Women's Soccer League. The terms of her move to Al-Hilal were not disclosed. In a statement, Matt Patter, Bay's sporting director, praised Oshoala's contribution to the club, describing her as an important part of Bay FC history, with impact on the pitch and professionalism off it.
Notably, Oshoala is not the only Nigerian player to make the move to Al-Hilal. Nigeria's Ashleigh Plumptre and Francisca Ordega also play for the Saudi Arabian club.
Oshoala's departure comes at a time when her international career is also thriving. She was part of the Nigerian team that won its 10th Africa Cup of Nations title in July. As a six-time African player of the year, Oshoala continues to make history and break boundaries in women's football.
As Oshoala embarks on this new chapter with Al-Hilal, Bay FC fans will undoubtedly remember her as a key figure in their inaugural season. Her goal-scoring prowess and professional demeanour left an indelible mark on the club, and her legacy will continue to be celebrated in the Bay Area.
