The 25-year-old Nigerian international joins Al Hilal following the end of a highly successful six-year spell with Portuguese champions Benfica. Her departure from the Lisbon club was confirmed earlier this summer after her contract expired, paving the way for a new chapter in her career.
During her time at Benfica, Ucheibe established herself as one of the most reliable and versatile players in the Portuguese women’s game. She made 179 appearances and scored 11 goals across all competitions. More significantly, she was part of a dominant era that delivered six consecutive league titles, five League Cups, two Portuguese Cups and two Super Cups.
The former Nasarawa Amazons player arrived in Portugal in February 2020 as a teenager and matured into a key figure both for club and country. Her consistent performances earned her regular call-ups to the Super Falcons, and she played an important role in Nigeria’s 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations triumph.
Ucheibe will now reunite with fellow Super Falcons star Asisat Oshoala at Al Hilal. The Saudi club has been actively strengthening its squad and continues to attract high-profile African talent as the women’s game in the kingdom grows rapidly.
The move marks Ucheibe’s first experience outside Europe after spells in Nigeria, Sweden and Portugal. It also reflects the increasing financial pull of the Saudi Women’s Premier League, which has become an attractive destination for established internationals seeking new challenges and improved terms.
At 25, Ucheibe remains in the prime of her career. Her defensive midfield qualities, physical presence and leadership are expected to add depth and experience to Al Hilal’s midfield as they prepare for the new season.
The transfer brings the curtain down on a trophy-laden chapter in Portugal and opens a fresh opportunity in the Middle East. Nigerian football supporters will watch with interest as one of the country’s most consistent midfielders begins this next phase of her professional journey.