Benfica officially announced a major comeback this Friday. Joana Soeiro, the talented point guard, is returning to the club she knows so well. She spent two years playing in Spain, first with Bembibre and then with CD Zamarat. Now, the 30-year-old Portuguese international is back, signing a two-year contract with the current two-time national women’s basketball champions.
Soeiro wasted no time, sharing her excitement with fans through a social media video. “Benfiquistas, I’m back,” she declared. Her words truly captured the feeling of coming home. “For me, it means returning to the place where I found so much joy. It means embracing the challenge and the honor of representing this team once more.” She couldn’t hide her happiness. “I was truly counting the days until I could finally share this news. I’m incredibly happy and eager to get started.”
Her goals for this new chapter are clear. “Our team goals are always the same: to win,” Soeiro explained. “I hope every athlete, coach, and anyone representing this club feels the same way. We want to win as many titles and as many games as possible. We work hard with that in mind.” On a personal level, her aims align perfectly. “I can’t say anything different. I’m here at Benfica to help, to keep winning titles, and to fill the Museum with all the cups and trophies we love to see and celebrate together.”
The Journey Abroad and What She Learned
Joana Soeiro opened up about her decision to leave for Spain previously. She felt a pull to explore different leagues and bigger stages across Europe. “I loved playing for Benfica,” she said, “but at that time, I had other ambitions.” She took a leap, chasing those goals, and now she’s a different player. “I left and pursued those objectives. Now, two seasons later, I’m an athlete with more experience. My understanding of the game has grown.” She also got to test her skills against top-tier, even world-class, players. “That was something I really needed. It prepared me to return now and help the team win even more titles.”
When asked about her best quality on the court, Soeiro didn’t hesitate. “Leadership is a huge part of my game. It’s been one of my main traits for several years now.” She acknowledged improving in many areas, but if she had to pick one, it would be her ability to lead and keep the group united.
A Call to the Fans
Before wrapping up, Joana Soeiro had a special message for the Benfica faithful. “Thank you again for welcoming me back,” she said. “Your support shows in so many ways, whether on the street or on social media. This club has an amazing base of supporters, and we athletes truly feel it.” She expressed how honored she feels to wear the shirt again. “Come to the arenas, come support us, be there. Playing in front of a full house makes a huge difference, and that’s why I’m here.”
Soeiro’s basketball journey began with Gafanha’s youth teams. She made her senior debut for Algés e Dafundo, playing there for two years. Her career then took her across the Atlantic to the United States, where she played four seasons for Marian University. She came back to Portugal in 2018/19, joining União Sportiva. The following season, in 2019/20, she made the move to Benfica. She quickly became a central figure for the ‘Red’ team. In her first four years wearing the Benfica jersey, Soeiro helped secure nine trophies: two championships, two Portuguese Cups, two Super Cups, two Federation Cups, and one Vítor Hugo Cup. Her return promises more exciting times for the club.