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Deportivo's Blessing Nkor embracing Bonmati & Ajibade's Spanish top-flight challenge

Nkor (R) made the move to Deportivo La Coruna
Nkor (R) made the move to Deportivo La CorunaADIL BENAYACHE / Sipa Press / Profimedia
Newly signed Deportivo La Coruna forward Blessing Nkor (21) is excited about the opportunity to face Barcelona superstar Aitana Bonmati (27), along with Atletico Madrid’s Rasheedat Ajibade (25) in the Primera Division Femenina.

After an impressive stint with Turkey's Gaziantep Asya Spor and Egypt's Pyramid FC, the Spanish club signed the Nigeria international to bolster their attacking lineup.

With this move, she joins the esteemed ranks of Nigerian footballers who have played professionally in Spain, including Asisat Oshoala, Ajibade, Rinsola Babajide, Gift Monday, Francisca Ordega, Chidinma Okeke, Peace Efih, Rita Chikwelu, Toni Payne, Charity Adule, Osinachi Ohale, and Ngozi Okobi.

Nkor, who expressed her excitement about playing in the "biggest league in the world," is eager to take on the reigning Ballon d'Or Feminin winner and her Super Falcons teammate as she looks to make a significant impact for Fran Alonso's side.

"I feel so good and am so happy to be here. Deportivo are a great club, and it’s such an honour to wear the badge," Nkor told Flashscore.com

"The Spanish league is undoubtedly the biggest in the world, and I’m proud to be part of it. Many great players have graced Liga F, and I’m motivated to leave my mark here as well

"I’m especially looking forward to facing Aitana Bonmati and my international teammate, Rasheedat Ajibade."

On her way to winning a second Ballon d'Or title, Spain international Bonmati claimed every major trophy at the club level last season as Barcelona achieved a historic quadruple, securing Liga F, the Champions League, the Supercopa, and the Copa de la Reina.

No selfies, just goals: Nkor unveils ambitions

The adaptable forward, who began her career at Osklean Football Academy, is already enjoying life in the northwest of Spain, thanks to her teammates who have made her feel right at home.

She continued: "I think Deportivo is the perfect club for me. I love the stadium, the fans, and my teammates

"The atmosphere is fantastic, and my teammates welcomed me as if we’ve known each other for a long time

"My first training session with the team was great, and I enjoyed every moment of it. The food is excellent, and the football culture here is truly phenomenal."

Nkor also revealed her motivation for joining Deportivo, despite interest from several other clubs, and shared her goals for what she aims to achieve with the team.

"What motivated me to join Deportivo was my long-term goal of playing professionally in Spain," she added.

"Why Spain, you may ask? It’s because Spain is the most competitive country and the biggest in terms of women’s football globally

"Besides that, it offers an opportunity to advance my career and provides the perfect platform for me to showcase the qualities I possess.

"A Coruna is a beautiful city, but trust me, I'm not here for selfies. My mission here is to score goals week in and week out and lead my club to glory.

"On a personal note, I want to make a mark as one of the best players in the league."

When asked about her preferred position and how she can be a valuable asset to Alonso's team, the forward said: "I play as a right-wing forward, left-wing forward, and in an attacking role.

"I'm skilled at adapting to the coach's style and formation, and Deportivo will definitely help refine my playing style."

Nkor is set to make her Deportivo La Coruna debut, having been included in the squad for their upcoming match against fellow league strugglers Real Betis Feminas at Ciudad Deportiva Luis de Sol.

With 12 points from 15 matches played so far in the 2024/25 campaign, a victory away from home will help Deportivo distance themselves from the relegation zone.

Before her move to Spain, the goal machine had represented Nigeria's topflight sides, Ibom Angels and Sunshine Queens, as well as Tanzanian giants Yanga Princess.

On the international stage, she represented Nigeria at the U20 level before making her senior debut in an international friendly against France in November 2024. 

Nkor is also in line to make the Super Falcons squad for the 2024 Africa Women’s Cup of Nations in Morocco later this year.

Shina Oludare
Shina OludareFlashscore