Super Falcons midfielder Christy Ucheibe has joined Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal on a free transfer after ending her successful spell with Portuguese giants Benfica. The Nigeria international has signed a contract that will keep her at the Riyadh-based club until 2028.
Ucheibe leaves Benfica after an impressive spell in Portugal. She made 179 appearances for the club across all competitions, scoring 11 goals and providing 11 assists during her time with the Portuguese champions.
The 25-year-old was an important part of Benfica's domestic dominance. She won six consecutive Liga BPI titles, five Taça da Liga trophies, two Taça de Portugal crowns and two Supertaça titles during her time with the club.
Ucheibe's versatility was one of her biggest strengths at Benfica. Although she operated mainly in defensive roles, her physical strength, ball-winning ability and tactical discipline made her a dependable member of the squad.
Her move to Saudi Arabia represents another major step in her club career. Al Hilal have continued to attract high-profile women's footballers as the Saudi Women's Premier League develops and clubs increase their investment in the women's game.
Ucheibe will also have a familiar face waiting for her at Al Hilal. She will join compatriot Asisat Oshoala, who is already one of the club's leading attacking players. The pair are also established members of the Super Falcons setup.
The midfielder remains an important player for Nigeria. The Nigeria Football Federation included Ucheibe in the squad for the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations, where she helped the defending champions continue their continental campaign.
Ucheibe also played a key role in Nigeria's 6-2 quarter-final victory over Egypt at the tournament. She converted a late penalty in that match as the Super Falcons advanced to face Cameroon.
Her international record includes a major continental title. Ucheibe was part of the Nigerian squad that won the 2024 Women's Africa Cup of Nations, adding another important achievement to her growing career.
The move to Al Hilal also gives Ucheibe the opportunity to continue playing alongside Oshoala at club level. Both players have featured prominently for Nigeria and are expected to bring their international experience to the Saudi side.
For Ucheibe, the transfer marks the end of a trophy-filled chapter in Portugal and the beginning of a new challenge in Saudi Arabia. Her contract with Al Hilal runs until 2028.
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