Nigerian Midfielder Ibrahim Alhassan joins Awaziem, Onyemaechi at Boavista

Boavista FC have announced the signing of Nigerian midfielder Ibrahim Alhassan from Belgian club Beerschot VA, a move that unites him with compatriots, Chidozie Awaziem and Bruno Onyemaechi.

Alhassan, a former Nigeria youth international, has inked a two-year contract with the Portuguese side, keeping him at the club until the end of the 2025/2026 season.

Known for his aggressive style and ball-handling skills, the 27-year-old midfielder expressed his excitement about joining Boavista. “Signing for Boavista was an easy decision because I know how great the club is. Portugal feels like a second home to me, and I can’t wait to meet my new teammates,” he said.

Alhassan has played 43 games for Beerschot VA over the past two years and previously represented CD Nacional in Portugal from 2018 to 2022. He is thrilled to return to Portuguese football and described the atmosphere at Boavista’s Bessa Stadium as “incredible.”

The defensive midfielder, who can also play in central defense, emphasised his commitment to giving his all on the field. “I always give 100% for the club I represent,” he added.

With three caps for Nigeria’s senior national team, Alhassan is set to reunite with fellow Nigerian internationals Bruno Onyemaechi and Chidozie Awaziem at Boavista. He believes this connection will help him adapt quickly to his new club. “I know Bruno [Onyemaechi] and Chidozie personally,” Alhassan said. “I played with Chidozie when I was in the Nigerian national team, and I had already faced Bruno when he was still at Feirense. I also shared the dressing room with Filipe Ferreira at Nacional, and I remember playing against Ibrahima Camara. This connection with my teammates could be important for me to adapt more easily.”

Reflecting on his career, which includes stints at FK Austria Wien and two Nigerian clubs, Alhassan feels honored to join Boavista. “Boavista is a historic club with many titles. I am ready to start working and fight to leave my mark,” he concluded.

Born in Kano, Alhassan previously played for Wikki Tourists and Akwa United before leaving Nigeria for Austria in 2017.