Brisbane Roar’s new Dutch forward, Bente Jansen, has made an immediate and electrifying splash in the Ninja A-League. The 26-year-old attacker has enjoyed a “red-hot start” to the season, quickly establishing herself as the creative force behind a team embracing what can only be described as joyful chaos. Her early performances have been so influential that Head Coach Alex Smith has already hinted at her vast potential, promising fans there is “much more to come from her.” But to understand her immediate success in Australia, it’s essential to look at the top-tier European experience she brings to the Roar.
A Proven Winner: Jansen’s European Pedigree
Forged at FC Twente
Jansen is a product of the FC Twente system, where she spent twelve years honing her craft. After making her professional debut in 2016, she went on to make over 100 appearances for the Dutch powerhouse, becoming a key figure in a period of immense success for the club.
Success with the Giants
Before her move to Australia, Jansen played for AFC Ajax, one of the most storied clubs in world football. During her time in Amsterdam, she made 24 appearances and reached the Quarter Finals of the Champions League, gaining invaluable experience competing at the highest level—a poise under pressure she has already demonstrated in the final minutes of both A-League matches.
| Club | Major Trophies Won |
| FC Twente | 🏆 Women’s Eredivisie (2018/19, 2020/21, 2021/22) 🏆 Dutch Cup 🏆 Dutch Super Cup |
| AFC Ajax | 🏆 Dutch Cup |
With a resume filled with European trophies, Jansen looked for a new challenge, finding an ambitious project in Australia.
The Move Down Under: Joining Brisbane Roar
On September 10, 2025, Brisbane Roar officially announced the signing of Bente Jansen, a move that was immediately hailed as a significant addition to the squad. Her arrival was met with excitement from both the player and the club, signaling a clear statement of intent for the upcoming season.
“I’m super happy and proud to play for Brisbane Roar and grateful for the confidence the club has in me… the ambitious playing style immediately appealed to me and suits my own style of play very well.”
— Bente Jansen
Jansen’s recognition of the team’s “ambitious playing style” was a nod to the “kinetic, impulsive, joyful chaos” that coach Alex Smith has instilled in the squad—a system built on relentless attacking football that perfectly suits her creative instincts.
“It’s a huge coup for our program to sign a player of her calibre. She has extensive experience in a top European league and is in the prime of her career… She has fantastic technical ability and a proven track record of winning trophies.”
— Head Coach Alex Smith
Jansen was brought in to make a “direct impact” with her experience, and expectations were high. She wasted no time in proving her quality on the pitch.
A Red-Hot Start: Dominating the Ninja A-League
Jansen burst onto the scene in the opening rounds of the Ninja A-League, playing a decisive role in Brisbane Roar’s two victories and showcasing her ability to both score and create goals.
Round 1 vs. Melbourne Victory (3-2 Win)
In her debut match, Jansen delivered a performance to remember, contributing to two of the Roar’s three goals.
- A Stunning Debut Goal: In the 22nd minute, she introduced herself to the league with a “screamer.” After cutting inside, she unleashed a “stunning curling effort” that left the goalkeeper with no chance.
- The Match-Winning Assist: With the game on the line, she turned provider late on, delivering a deep cross that Tameka Yallop headed home for the winning goal.
Round 2 vs. Perth Glory (3-2 Win)
Jansen was the “decisive factor” in a thrilling five-goal encounter against Perth Glory, putting the game out of the hosts’ reach with a quickfire brace born from a compelling new partnership. Her connection with Sharn Freier—a returning Matilda on loan from German powerhouse VfL Wolfsburg—proved unstoppable.
- Goal 1 (52nd minute): She met a well-placed cross from Freier, guiding an effortless header past the Glory goalkeeper.
- Goal 2 (55th minute): Just three minutes later, in a moment of horror for the Perth defence, Freier again found Jansen. Her low shot was tipped onto the post by keeper Alyssa Dall’Oste, but after a mad scramble in the box, the ball rolled agonisingly over the line to secure her brace.
In just two games, Jansen’s ability to both score and create has been instrumental in placing the Roar at the top of the table.
Conclusion: A Star on the Rise
The 26-year-old Dutch forward Bente Jansen is more than just a new signing; she is a statement of Brisbane Roar’s ambition. Bringing a wealth of experience from top European clubs like Ajax and FC Twente, she moves as if she’s “still painting ideas on the Ajax training ground.” With three goals and one assist in her first two matches, Jansen has already become a fan favourite and established herself as the artistic engine of the Roar’s chaotic but thrilling quest for silverware this season.
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