From a perilous journey across the Sahara to becoming a rising football star in Spain, the story of Edna Imade is nothing short of inspiring.
Born on October 5, 2000, in Benin City, Nigeria, Imade’s path to professional football is steeped in resilience, sacrifice, and huge determination, Footballrover reports.
This article shares all you need to know about her early life, career, and the emotional threads that tie her journey together.
Edna Imade’s journey: From survival to stardom
Edna Imade’s life began in uncertain circumstances. Her parents left Nigeria in 2000, desperately searching for a better life.
Her mother, pregnant with Edna and her twin brother Paul, undertook a treacherous crossing of the Sahara Desert, eventually giving birth in Morocco.
Three months later, they secured passage to Spain, but their arrival was bittersweet—her father was detained and deported, leaving her mother alone with newborn twins.
With no money, language skills, or family, Edna’s mother struggled until a Kenyan nun offered shelter in Seville.
They lived hand-to-mouth, relying on welfare and selling scarves on the streets.
Still, she raised her children with grit, teaching them that strength could sprout from struggle.
Growing up in Seville, Edna Imade adopted the local Andalusian accent and culture but never forgot her Nigerian roots.
At six, she joined Fútbol Base Carmona, where her football dream was born.
Later, she gained early insights into the game as a referee and explored indoor soccer with Santana, followed by a spell at Nervión, where she bagged close to 100 goals.
Her talents earned her a move to Málaga in 2019, before switching to Cacereno in 2021. In April 2023, she joined Granada CF Femenino, wearing jersey number 19.
Since then, she has made 55 appearances, scored 20 goals, and recorded one assist, emerging as a versatile and physically commanding forward with elite speed and awareness.
And now she’s on the verge of joining Bayern Munich on a 4-year-deal.
All you need to know: Edna Imade’s life beyond football
Beyond the pitch, Edna Imade is an individual with many layers. She stands 179 cm tall, holds a higher degree in administration, and once considered a career in dancing.
A devoted fan of Ronaldinho, she draws inspiration from his flair and creativity.
Imade has two older brothers and a deep love for family, especially her mother, who she credits for her resilience.
“At what point in my life did I go from being 3 to 21? Life goes by so fast we don’t even notice. This is my big little family, my greatest motivation and my driving force. Enjoy every moment, value what you have and love your family above all else,” Imade once said.
Though she has never been to Nigeria, she maintains connections with relatives in Benin City, and her mother dreams of returning one day—someday when it’s safe.
Could Edna Imade be Nigeria’s next Super Falcons star?
With the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations looming, there’s growing speculation around Edna Imade possibly donning the Super Falcons jersey.
Nigeria is in need of emerging talent, and Imade’s raw ability, story of survival, and Nigerian heritage position her as a compelling candidate.
A call-up would not only bring her closer to her cultural identity but also provide Nigeria with a game-changer as they chase continental glory once again.
In a football world full of overnight sensations, Edna Imade stands out not just for her stats but for her soul-stirring story—one that began with struggle and could culminate in greatness.
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