Asisat Oshoala recorded her place in football history by becoming the first African player to score a goal in a UEFA Women's Champions League final in 2019. Since beginning her professional path in Nigeria, she has competed for clubs across England, China, Spain, and beyond, securing a record six African Women Footballer of the Year awards.
Early Career and Move to England
Born in 1994 in Ikorodu, Nigeria, Oshoala began her professional development with Rivers Angels and FC Robo. In 2015, she made history as the first African player to compete in the English Women's Super League after joining Liverpool. Despite missing two months due to a knee injury during her debut season, she scored three goals in nine appearances. She later moved to Arsenal in 2016, where she contributed to the team's victory in that year's FA Women's Cup.
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Following a stint with the Chinese club Dalian, where she won two league championships and a Golden Boot, Oshoala transferred to FC Barcelona Femení in 2019. Her impact in Spain was significant, resulting in 117 goals over 162 appearances and 14 trophies, including two trebles. She holds the distinction of being the first African woman to win the UEFA Champions League, achieving this title in 2021 and adding two more by 2024.
International Recognition
Oshoala's international career with the Nigeria national team features notable successes, including being named the top goalscorer and best player at the 2014 FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup. She also played for the Super Falcons during their 2014 African Women's Championship victory. Her influence extends off the pitch, as evidenced by her 2014 appointment as a Member of the Order of the Niger by President Goodluck Jonathan and her inclusion in the 2021 Forbes 30 Under 30 list.
Fast facts
- Born: 1994, Ikorodu
- Citizenship: Nigeria
- Religion: Islam
- Awards: African Women Footballer of the Year (2014, 2016, 2017, 2019, 2022)
- Professional debut: 2009
- Languages: English, Nigerian Pidgin, Yoruba
- Honour: Member of the Order of the Niger
Questions readers ask
How many times has Oshoala won the African Women Footballer of the Year?
She has won the award a record six times.
What is the meaning of her nickname, Àgba Baller?
It translates to Legendary Footballer in her local parlance.
