Falconets forward Janet Akekoromowei has put potential European transfer opportunities on hold to remain fully focused on helping Nigeria secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup. The 18 year old, linked with several top European clubs, is concentrating on the current campaign with the national U-20 side.
Contrary to speculation, sources close to the team have clarified that the Nigeria Football Federation has not confiscated Akekoromowei’s passport she simply wants to stay committed to the Falconets’ World Cup push.
Akekoromowei has been a key figure in the Falconets setup, having previously starred at the 2024 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Colombia and earning recognition as the Most Valuable Player in the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) last season.
Amid interest from major European clubs, including Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Benfica the Bayelsa Queens front-woman opted to remain with the Falconets as they prepare for crucial qualifiers. Her decision reflects a desire to boost her profile further through international success before moving abroad.
A team official, speaking on condition of anonymity, denied reports that the NFF had confiscated Akekoromowei’s passport to prevent a transfer. They emphasised that the player made her choice based on personal ambition and the belief that a strong showing on the world stage will ultimately enhance her career prospects.
Akekoromowei was influential in the Falcons’ recent friendly win over FC Robo Queens, scoring the decisive goal as part of her build-up to the qualifiers.
Editorial
Janet Akekoromowei’s decision to prioritise international duty over immediate moves abroad highlights a growing professional mindset among Nigeria’s emerging female football stars. In an era where young talents are often tempted by the lure of European leagues, her focus on representing her country and striving for World Cup qualification is commendable.
For the Falconets, having a player of her calibre committed to the cause provides stability and leadership at a crucial juncture of the qualifying campaign. This kind of dedication can set the tone for the rest of the squad and inspire others to adopt a similar approach.
From a broader perspective, Akekoromowei’s choice underscores how international platforms like the U-20 Women’s World Cup serve as important springboards for Nigerian talent. It also sends a message that success with the national team can be just as valuable, if not more so, than an early club transfer a perspective that could benefit the development of women’s football in Nigeria over the long term.
Did You Know?
- Janet Akekoromowei was the Most Valuable Player in the Nigeria Women Football League last season.
- She scored the winning goal in a Falconets friendly against FC Robo Queens ahead of the qualifiers.
- The Falconets are preparing for their third-round qualifier against Senegal in the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers.
- Nigeria’s U-20 women’s team has qualified for every edition of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup since 2002.
- The upcoming World Cup finals will be held in Poland from September 5-27, 2026.s
