Nigerian international forward Asisat Oshoala has officially left Bay FC to join the Saudi club Al Hilal, with the transfer finalized on September 3, 2025. This move represents a major turning point in her career as she departs from the American National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) to compete in the rapidly growing Saudi Women’s Premier League. Oshoala’s departure comes in the middle of a season in which she was among her club’s top scorers.
Joining Bay FC prior to their inaugural 2024 season, Oshoala quickly became the cornerstone of the attack with seven goals—a club record. With over 120 career professional goals, two UEFA Women’s Champions League titles, and six African Women’s Player of the Year awards, she leaves a remarkable sporting legacy and a positive influence off the field. Bay FC’s management warmly acknowledged her impact and wished her success in this next chapter.
This transfer also highlights the rise of women’s football in Africa and the Middle East, with Al Hilal investing in international stars to strengthen their recently professionalized league. For Oshoala, the move could boost the global visibility of African women’s football. Her decision to join Al Hilal underlines a strategic focus by clubs in Africa and nearby regions on recruiting top-tier players to professionalize and popularize the sport.
Finally, this announcement comes during an intense international sports season, notably with African qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup underway. Asisat Oshoala’s transfer to Al Hilal is not only a significant milestone in her personal career but also a strong signal for the development of African women’s football on the world stage.