Kenyan international forward Cynthia Shilwatso has made a significant move in her football career by joining Turkish Women’s First League side Beşiktaş United Payment Kadın Football Club. The 24-year-old forward becomes the second Kenyan player to sign for the Turkish giants, following in the footsteps of Esse Akida. Shilwatso’s arrival at Besiktas marks an exciting new chapter in her journey, which has been characterized by determination, resilience, and impressive achievements on the international stage.
Shilwatso’s move to Turkey comes after her stint with Ukrainian club Kryvbas Women, where she showcased her talent in both the UEFA Women’s Champions League and the Ukrainian top flight. During her time with Kryvbas, she made 16 appearances and netted seven goals, underlining her goal-scoring ability. Unfortunately, her promising run in Ukraine was cut short by injury, forcing her to take time off to recover.
Determined to return to peak fitness, Shilwatso trained with Mathare United Women during her recovery period. Her commitment and work ethic during rehabilitation not only helped her regain full fitness but also prepared her for the next step in her career. Now fully recovered, Shilwatso is eager to make her mark in Turkey and prove her worth at Besiktas.
Shilwatso brings a wealth of international experience to her new club, having played in various leagues across Europe and Africa. Before her time in Ukraine, she played for DUX Logroño in Spain and Fountain Gate Princess in Tanzania. Her versatile style of play, coupled with her knack for finding the back of the net, makes her a valuable asset for any team she joins. Her past achievements, including her tenure with Vihiga Queens in Kenya, further highlight her capabilities and readiness to thrive at the highest level.
The move to Besiktas also adds to the growing list of Kenyan players making waves in international women’s football. Shilwatso’s journey serves as an inspiration for many young players back home, demonstrating the possibilities available through hard work, talent, and perseverance. Kenyan football has increasingly become a breeding ground for players capable of competing on the global stage, and Shilwatso is a shining example of this trend.
At Besiktas, Shilwatso will have the opportunity to play in a competitive league and further hone her skills. The Turkish Women’s First League provides a platform for players to test their abilities against top-tier competition, and Shilwatso is expected to bring her dynamic playing style to the team’s offensive lineup. Her debut match, set for this Sunday against arch-rivals Fenerbahçe, will be closely watched as fans and analysts alike anticipate the impact she will have on her new team.
Besiktas, under the guidance of coach Mesut Kır, has a strong tradition of nurturing talent and competing at a high level. Shilwatso’s addition to the squad aligns with the club’s ambition to strengthen its roster and remain competitive in the league. Her signing also reflects the club’s recognition of her potential and the value she adds to the team.
Shilwatso’s resilience and determination have been central to her journey thus far. Overcoming challenges, including injuries and transitions across leagues, she has consistently risen to the occasion, showcasing her talent and dedication. As she embarks on this new chapter in Turkey, the expectations are high, but her track record suggests she is more than ready for the challenge.
Her move to Besiktas not only highlights her personal achievements but also underscores the growing prominence of Kenyan players in the global football arena. With her skills, experience, and unwavering determination, Shilwatso is well-positioned to leave a lasting impression at Besiktas and continue her inspiring journey in the world of football.
