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Asisat Oshoala Inspires Surge of Interest in Chinese Super League Among Female Footballers
In a groundbreaking revelation, Super Falcons striker Asisat Oshoala has asserted that her stellar performance with Dalian Quanjian in the Chinese Super League is fostering a heightened interest among female footballers to compete in the dynamic and increasingly competitive Chinese football landscape. Oshoala, recently honored as the best female footballer in Africa at the Aiteo CAF Awards, capped off a remarkable year with Quanjian, securing both the league and cup titles.
Amassing an impressive tally of 12 goals, Oshoala not only emerged as the league’s top scorer but was also bestowed with the title of the league’s best player. In an exclusive interview with theGuardian.com, she shared insights into the distinctive nature of Chinese football compared to the European counterparts.
“Football in China is a different kettle of fish from that in England. However, it is also surprisingly competitive and growing,” Oshoala elucidated. “We have more top players moving here from Europe. I get messages from different players around the world who want to know what the league is like. Of course, the pay is better, but it’s not just about the pay. Lots just want to experience something dramatically different.”
Highlighting the unique parity in the Chinese league, Oshoala emphasized the absence of lopsided victories that characterize some European leagues. “When you go to England or France, you see teams taking 7-0, 8-0 beatings, but you don’t get that in China,” she remarked. “It’s much more even. Every team has players in the national team and players from abroad. That’s what you need.”
Oshoala concluded by lauding the challenging and competitive nature of the Chinese league, acknowledging that adaptation requires a robust character, particularly for those arriving from Europe. The striker’s insights have sparked a surge in inquiries from global players, underscoring the league’s rising stature on the international stage.
