The 30-year-old, who had been on the books of Bay FC in the U.S. National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), was notably absent from her team’s recent clash with Angel City, where she was listed on the availability report as excused.
Her transfer, first reported by ESPN, ends a brief spell in the NWSL with expansion side Bay FC, whom she joined earlier this year.
Al Hilal confirmed the signing on Instagram, writing: “Welcome Asisat Oshoala.”
A decorated career
Widely regarded as one of Africa’s greatest women’s footballers, Oshoala arrives in Saudi Arabia with an illustrious CV. A two-time Ballon d’Or nominee, she scored 107 goals in 149 appearances across five seasons with Barcelona, winning five Spanish league titles and two UEFA Women’s Champions League trophies.
Her career has also included spells at Arsenal, Liverpool, and Chinese club Dalian Quanjian, following her breakthrough years at Nigerian sides Robo Queens and Rivers Angels.
Nigerian presence in Saudi Arabia
At Al Hilal, Oshoala will link up with her Super Falcons teammates Ashleigh Plumptre and Francisca Ordega. The club, which finished sixth last season after the league expanded from eight to 10 teams, is seeking to strengthen its squad as the Saudi Women’s Premier League continues to attract international stars.
The move underscores Oshoala’s status as one of the most sought-after strikers in women’s football, bringing her talent and global experience to a league looking to grow its competitive edge and profile.