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Bay FC is making waves in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) with another high-profile signing, securing Nigerian powerhouse Asisat Oshoala from FC Barcelona Femení.
Fresh off a major international acquisition, Bay FC, one of the NWSL's newest expansion teams, is gearing up for a competitive debut, signalling their intent with the addition of Oshoala to their ranks.
The transfer, involving a fee to Barcelona, sees Oshoala committing to the club through the 2026 season, with an option for 2027, pending the finalization of her paperwork.
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17:55 - 01.02.2024
End of an era: Super Falcons star Asisat Oshoala to leave Barcelona
Super Falcons forward and Nigerian football icon, Asisat Oshoala, is making a significant transition in her professional career by moving to the United States National Women's Soccer League (NWSL).
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17:35 - 01.02.2024
Asisat Oshoala: Super Falcons star departs Barcelona for Bay FC
Super Falcons star Asisat Oshoala departs Barcelona for Bay FC.
A Global Football Icon Joins Bay FC
Asisat Oshoala, a celebrated figure in women's soccer, brings a wealth of experience and accolades to Bay FC. With appearances in three FIFA Women's World Cups (2015, 2019, 2023) and a track record of propelling Nigeria to the Round of 16 in the latest two, her international pedigree is unquestionable.
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At 29, Oshoala has showcased her talents across the globe, from her home country of Nigeria to China and Europe, amassing an impressive array of titles, including being named the African Women's Footballer of the Year six times.
Reflecting on her move, Oshoala shared with CBS Sports, "I know it's a big change. I understand the challenge that I have ahead of me and I know that everything is possible as well.
"It's just about the mindset. You know, it's what we can build together as a team," emphasizing her readiness to contribute to Bay FC's inaugural season and her ambition to clinch victories.
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"Go for everything. Because the most simple one of the goals when you go into a competition is -- you want to win it. That's what you need to have in mind. That mentality to go on the pitch and fight for everything."
Asisat Oshoala: From Barcelona to the Bay
Bay FC's acquisition of Oshoala is not just a statement of intent but a testament to the club's strategic approach to building a competitive team.
General Manager Lucy Rushton highlighted the significance of adding a player of Oshoala's caliber, noting her "quality, experience, and winning pedigree."
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Oshoala's journey through the ranks of world football has been nothing short of stellar, from her early days at Rivers Angels FC in Nigeria to her record-setting performances at FC Barcelona Femení, where she netted 107 goals in 149 appearances, clinched multiple league titles, Spanish Super Cups, Copa de la Reina titles, and two UEFA Women's Champions League titles.
Her anticipation of the NWSL's competitive landscape and eagerness to engage in local derbies adds an exciting dimension to her arrival.
"You know, it's always more fun, and interesting. You have people in the city, having a feel of what women's soccer game looks like. Playing against each other, rivalry games like that, and I love it.
"Now we have in California, we've got like three teams now, that's gonna be pretty interesting for me. I'm looking forward to derby games," Oshoala expressed.
Bay FC is now in full preparation mode for the upcoming season, with the Coachella Valley Invitational on the horizon, where they'll face notable teams like San Diego Wave, Angel City FC, and Portland Thorns FC.
As the team embarks on their inaugural season, starting with a match against Angel City in Los Angeles on March 16, the addition of Asisat Oshoala signifies not just a new chapter for her but a bold leap forward for Bay FC in the NWSL.
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