Benfica Sign Nigerian Striker Flourish Sabastine On Free Transfer

Portuguese Women’s League champions Benfica have completed the signing of Nigerian forward Flourish Sabastine on a three-year free transfer, the club confirmed Wednesday, securing the former Falconets star until 2029.

The 22-year-old attacker arrives after a standout campaign with Fenerbahce, where she netted 12 goals in 25 appearances across all competitions and helped the Turkish giants clinch the Women’s Super League title. Her contract expiry at the end of the season opened the door for Benfica, who moved swiftly to bring the highly-rated Nigerian to the Estádio da Luz.

Sabastine now joins an emerging Nigerian contingent in Lisbon, linking up with Super Falcons midfielder Christy Ucheibe and fellow summer arrival Janet Akekoromowei. The trio are expected to form a strong spine for the reigning Portuguese champions as they defend their domestic crown and pursue European ambitions.

The striker first gained international recognition during the 2022 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Costa Rica, where she led Nigeria’s Falconets attack. Despite the team’s quarter-final exit to the Netherlands, Sabastine showcased her potential alongside future Super Falcons stars including Tosin Demehin, Esther Onyenezide, Deborah Abiodun, Rofiat Imuran, and Chioma Olise – the latter now plying her trade in Turkey.

Speaking after her unveiling, Sabastine expressed eagerness to hit the ground running at her new club. “To the Benfica fans, I can’t wait to see you guys soon on the pitch. I’m here to give you guys the best, and make you guys enjoy football,” she said, signaling her intent to make an immediate impact in Portuguese football.

The move marks the latest step in Sabastine’s upward trajectory, as she transitions from Turkish champions to Portuguese royalty, with Benfica betting on her goal-scoring prowess to fuel their campaign across multiple fronts this season.