Super Falcons defender Oluwatosin Demehin made her first start for Benfica in the UEFA Women’s Champions League on Wednesday night as the Portuguese giants faced Juventus in a high-profile European encounter.
Sports247 reports that Demehin was named in Benfica’s starting XI for the continental clash, marking another significant milestone in her growing club career and providing a proud moment for Nigerian women’s football on one of European football’s biggest stages.
Fellow Nigerian Sebastian Flourish was also included in Benfica’s matchday squad but began the encounter on the bench.
Benfica took control of the contest through Norwegian forward Marit Lund, who produced a decisive performance by scoring twice.
Lund opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 40th minute, giving Benfica a crucial advantage before the interval.
However, Demehin’s involvement in the match was cut short at half-time. The Nigerian defender, who had picked up an early caution, was replaced in the 46th minute by Diana Gomes as Benfica made a defensive adjustment.
Lund completed her brace in the 61st minute, extending Benfica’s advantage and putting the hosts in a commanding position.
Juventus responded through Redondo, who pulled a goal back to reduce the deficit and give the Italian side renewed hope.
Despite the late response from Juventus, Benfica maintained their advantage as the match entered its closing stages.
For Demehin, the fixture represented another important step in her European journey, having earned her first starting opportunity for Benfica in the prestigious UEFA Women’s Champions League.
Although her night ended at the interval following the early booking, the Super Falcons defender gained valuable experience from competing against one of Europe’s established women’s clubs.
Meanwhile, Sebastian Flourish remained an unused substitute as Benfica secured a memorable result in the European contest.
The appearance further underlines the growing presence of Nigerian players in elite European women’s football, with Demehin continuing to establish herself at Benfica while representing the Super Falcons on the international stage.
