In a significant step forward for Indian women’s football, Aveka Singh, a former India U-15 international, has signed with Næstved HG, a Danish club competing in the Kvinde 1. Division, Denmark’s second-tier league.
The 21-year-old midfielder, who previously plied her trade in the USA with UC Irvine Anteaters and in Spain with Terrassa, now finds herself starting a new chapter in Scandinavia — one that, as she puts it, is “more about development than just results”.
“The move to Denmark, both personally and professionally, feels right at this stage after my time in the US,” Aveka told RevSportz. “It’s a level up, playing-wise, and a great introduction into European football. I can focus more on my growth as a player rather than just outcomes. Also, Denmark is a beautiful country to live in.”
Born and raised in Delhi, Aveka took her first footballing steps as a teenager when her school introduced a girls’ football team. Starting off as a left winger inspired by Neymar, she quickly found her calling in the heart of midfield. Her football journey has been shaped by pushing personal boundaries — something that continues to fuel her ambitions.
“I chose not to stay in India because I want to develop in the best environment possible,” she said. “Being in high-demand, intense situations outside my comfort zone is helping me grow — not just as a footballer, but as a person.”
Aveka has worn India colours before — notably as part of the U-15 side that clinched the SAFF Championship title in 2018. A potential appearance at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, originally scheduled for 2020, slipped away when the tournament was postponed due to the pandemic.
“It was sad when the U-17 World Cup got postponed,” she reflected. “I couldn’t control it, so there was no point dwelling. I still dream of playing in all the major international tournaments for India — not just to participate, but to make a real impact.”
In 2023, she received her first senior national team call-up from then-coach Thomas Dennerby during the team’s tour to Saudi Arabia, building towards the Olympic qualifiers.
While Aveka’s focus is now firmly on club football, the long-term dream remains crystal clear.
“Yes, 100%. Representing the Indian senior national team is the ultimate goal,” she said. “It’s an honour and a dream — not just to represent but to win and take India where it deserves to be.”
Her new club, Næstved HG, has high hopes. In a statement, they described Aveka as a player who “brings vision, composure, and international experience to the midfield.”
Off the field, she says her biggest learnings have come from cultural exposure and friendships across continents.
“My best friends now are from all over the world,” said Aveka. “It’s opened up my mind, helped me embrace different philosophies and mentalities.”
As for advice to aspiring footballers, Aveka doesn’t sugarcoat the reality.
“It’s not easy,” she said. “You won’t get anything handed to you. And if you do, you’re lucky. The key is to put yourself in uncomfortable situations — that’s where real growth happens. Don’t shy away from hardship. What goes down always comes up.”
While the spotlight on women’s football in India continues to grow, Aveka believes patience is essential — alongside increased marketing, visibility, and investment.
“Disparities between men’s and women’s football in India won’t disappear overnight,” said Aveka. “But I do think things are changing. Hopefully, more people are watching and seeing what the women’s team is capable of.”
On the recent qualification for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup, she was clear: “It’s a great milestone, but this should be the minimum expectation. We have a strong squad — we can aim for the World Cup.”
For now, the focus is on her development in Denmark. Aveka knows the road ahead is long, but she is ready to walk it with purpose.
“With Næstved HG, my goal is to grow as much as I can,” said Aveka. “I want to learn, perform, and most importantly, trust the process.”
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