Super Falcons midfielder Christy Ucheibe has left Portuguese champions Benfica to join Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal ahead of the 2026/27 season, Trybal News reports.
The Nigeria international has signed a two year contract with Al Hilal. The deal will keep Ucheibe at the Saudi club until the summer of 2028.
Christy Ucheibe made the move after her Benfica contract expired. She now begins a new chapter in Saudi Arabia, where she will join fellow Nigeria international Asisat Oshoala.
The 25 year old spent six successful years with Benfica. During that period, she made 91 appearances and played a key role in the club’s continued dominance of Portuguese women’s football.
Ucheibe also collected several domestic trophies during her time in Lisbon. Her performances helped establish her as one of Benfica’s dependable midfield options.
Christy Ucheibe reunites with Oshoala in Saudi Arabia
The move also gives Ucheibe the chance to play alongside Oshoala at club level. Oshoala joined Al Hilal after leaving American club Bay FC last year and remains one of Nigeria’s most recognised women’s football stars.
Ucheibe started her career in Nigeria with Nasarawa Amazons. She later moved to Sweden, where she played for Assi IF before joining Benfica and taking the next major step in her career.
Her development in Portugal also helped her break into the Super Falcons. Ucheibe made her Nigeria debut in 2022 and has since earned 32 international caps.
She has scored three goals for Nigeria during that period. Ucheibe also played a role in the Super Falcons’ successful 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign.
The versatile midfielder brings energy, strength and tactical flexibility to Al Hilal. She can operate in central midfield and also play at centre back when required.
Her versatility could prove valuable as Al Hilal prepare for another demanding season in Saudi women’s football. The club will hope Ucheibe can add experience and balance to the squad.
Al Hilal also have a major domestic challenge ahead. The Saudi club will aim to close the gap on Al Nassr and compete for greater control of the women’s game in the country.
For Ucheibe, the transfer represents an important career move after six years at Benfica. She leaves Portugal with valuable experience and a strong collection of domestic honours.
Now, she will look to make an immediate impact in Saudi Arabia while continuing to play an important role for the Super Falcons on the international stage.
