Cross River’s Marylen Edem invited to Nigeria U-20 Women’s National team

By Ettah Emmanuel

CALABAR (CONVERSEER) – Nigeria’s U-20 Women’s National Team, the Falconets, have extended a prestigious invitation to Marylen Edem, a talented defender from Nasarawa Amazons, as preparations intensify for the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers.

Marylen Essien Edem hails from Creek Town in Odukpani Local Government Area, and her father works with the Cross River State Sports Commission.

She has been named among the 35-player provisional squad assembled by head coach Moses Aduku ahead of the two-legged qualifier against Rwanda. She will team up with Stella Emperor and Fatima Uloko, all from Cross River State, in the squad.

This opportunity marks a significant milestone in her blossoming football career and underscores her consistent performances in Nigeria’s top-tier women’s league.

Known for her solid defensive awareness, composure under pressure, and ability to read the game, Marylen is expected to bring stability and strength to the Falconets’ backline.

READ ALSO: Crystal Palace defeat Liverpool to lift first-ever FA Community Shield

The first leg of the qualifier will be played in Kigali on September 21, 2025, while the return leg will take place in Ibadan on September 27, 2025.

Marylen’s call-up is not only a personal achievement but also a proud moment for Cross River State football, shining a spotlight on the region’s ability to produce top-tier female talent capable of competing on the world stage.

As the Falconets aim for qualification to the U-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland, fans will be eager to see her contribute to Nigeria’s defensive resilience and quest for glory.