Exclusive: Joy Omewa the Nigerian Star Lighting Up Danish Football

From the bustling Nigerian football scene to the serene pitches of Denmark, Nigeria's young sensation Joy Omewa has charted an inspiring path in her football journey. 

The former Osun Babes and Confluence Queens forward is not only thriving in the Danish Women’s League but is also becoming a beacon of hope for young African footballers eyeing Europe. 

At just 22, Omewa’s exploits on the field have caught the attention of many, with her fantastic form in front of goal setting her apart.

Having emerged as the top scorer at the 2020 Sheroes Cup Championship with five goals, Omewa has taken her form to another level in Denmark after four years in Danish football. 

Her journey reflects not just talent but resilience, hard work, and a determination to succeed despite challenges.

In this feature, Omewa reflects on her journey, challenges, and aspirations, providing insights into her growth and how she hopes to inspire more African players to break into European football.

Thriving in Denmark: A Season to Remember

Currently, she leads the Danish Women's League topflight scorers chart with an impressive 11 goals and five assists from 14 matches.

Reflecting on her season so far, Omewa shared her excitement about the team’s progress.

"I think this year has been very good. We started slow, but at the end of the season, we got to where we wanted to be," Omewa told SportsBoom.com.

"I feel like everything is going well for the ladies and hope we continue when we gather for the rest of the season.

"It was like a process, and I think this year was just the stepping stone. It is working out this year because of the hard work—the training and everything. It is going smoothly, and I am grateful for that."

Teamwork and Ambitions for Glory

Two years earlier, Omewa, who was on loan from B39, helped Fortuna to claim the Danish Women’s Cup following a 3-1 victory over Thisted.

The Nigerian's good form is guiding her team, Fortuna Hjorring, to the top of the Elitedivisionen standings after 14 games. 

On a permanent stint, she credits teamwork and collective determination for her team's impressive run of form this season.

"It was teamwork and contribution. Everyone wants to win and is doing everything to make the team be where they are today," she continued. 

"We have a vision, and hopefully, it comes true. We want to win the double this season. Hopefully, it goes as planned and we get there."

The Journey from Nigeria to Europe 

During her almost two-year spelling in the Nigeria Women Football League, Omewa started with Premiership outfit Osun Babes in 2019.

The former Nigeria U17 invite later joined rivals Confluence Queens the next season before eventually moving abroad early 2021.

Omewa’s journey to Denmark began with her stints in the Nigerian league, a pathway that paved her way to Europe.

"I started with Osun Babes, then played with Confluence Queens before moving to Denmark," she stated.

"I played just a year and a half in the Nigerian league before transitioning to Denmark four years ago."

"I played for B93 before joining Fortuna Hjorring. It’s been a long journey, but I am grateful."

Overcoming Challenges in European Football

Transitioning to European football came with its challenges, she opened up on her travails, including rough start to life.

"When I first moved to Europe, it wasn’t easy. I felt like it’s how many thousands of miles away. There were no friends, no nothing," she added.

"Like, the first three months were really hard, but then after everything, I navigated and pushed through."

"It wasn’t easy because I didn’t understand the ways of the Europeans. It wasn’t an easy journey, but I pulled through."

"After staying there for a while, I understood the culture, and the people there are really nice. It’s a really good experience."

Advice for Aspiring African Players

Omewa believes humility and hard work are key to succeeding in Europe: "When you first get to Europe, it’s not that easy. I think you just have to put your mind into training and dedication. 

"You have to do everything to help yourself because no one is going to help you. Try to keep training and playing, and I think everything will be fine."

She continued: "I think there is nothing impossible if you put your mind and dedicate yourself to what you are doing. I think the sky is the limit."

"Keep training hard and do what your coach says. Don’t think you are the best. Listen to whatever everyone says because no one knows how to play football. Humble yourself."

Dreams of Playing in England and Beyond

After four seasons in Denmark, Omewa has established herself as one of the top prospects in Europe following her progression in Denmark.

Just like many others, she dreams of playing in England and achieving more milestones in the coming years, including the national team.

"I have a lot of dreams, and I hope they come true. I am getting there, but I haven’t gotten there yet," she opened up. 

"I want to play for the national team someday, and my dream this year is to be the highest goal scorer for the season and make it to my dream club—a bigger one than my club now. I hope my consistent form will open days for others. That’s it for me this year."

As she continues to shine in Denmark, Omewa is not only making a name for herself but also paving the way for future African talents to follow in her footsteps.