Edo Queens FC versatile attacker, Ijeoma Okeke, opens up about her journey in football, the challenges she faced, and her future ambitions in an exclusive interview with Ijoba Sports News.
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Personal Background & Early Career
Question: Can you share a bit about your journey into football? How did it all start for you?
Answer: Well, it hasn’t been an easy journey from the start. I began playing in primary school, continued through secondary school, and advanced to the university level.
At first, my parents didn’t support me because they saw girls playing sports as a waste of time. But I kept pushing because I knew what I wanted. I participated in secondary school competitions and even church football tournaments. That was where my journey truly began—I won the Best Player of the Tournament award, along with a cash prize and a scholarship, which helped me complete my first degree.
Initially, I didn’t want to further my education, but how could I turn down the opportunity when football itself paved the way for it? After winning the cash prize, my parents had no choice but to support me fully. Today, I am proud of myself and my achievements. I’m grateful to God for the gift of life because as long as there is life, there is hope. I also appreciate my parents and siblings for standing by me even when the journey got tough.
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Question: Were there any particular challenges you faced as a female footballer while growing up?
Answer: Yes, my biggest challenge was balancing education and football. It was a very difficult decision for me.
I remember when I was writing my project and preparing to defend my seminar—just then, a league club gave me the opportunity to sign with them. However, we had an agreement that I should finish my schoolwork within a week and then join the team. Unfortunately, things didn’t work out as planned. That was one of the biggest challenges I faced while growing up as a female footballer.
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Question: Who were your role models in football, and how did they influence your career?
Answer: Smiles—I have three players I look up to.
First is Rita Chikwelu, a Nigerian international midfielder. I started as an attacking midfielder, so I enjoyed watching her play.
Second is Desire Oparanozie—she is a legend! I call her my GOAT. She is a joy to watch, with her physique, power, and goal-scoring ability. For me, she is one of the best ever.
Lastly, Macleans Chinonyerem, another Nigerian international. She inspires me in many ways. She makes scoring look easy, and I admire her pace, power, and strength.
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Club & National Team Experience
Question: How has your experience been playing for Edo Queens FC?
Answer: Playing for Edo Queens has been a big step in my career.
Everyone here has a winning mentality—it’s top-notch. The city and the environment make football feel different. I am happy and privileged to be here.
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Question: What are some of the most memorable moments in your career so far?
Answer: One of my most memorable moments was scoring the only goal that saved my team from relegation.
It was my first league match, my first start, and my first league goal. That moment was priceless.
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Question: Can you describe your typical training routine and how you prepare for matches?
Answer: My training routine includes physical conditioning, speed work, power exercises, cardio training, ball work, and gym sessions. Most importantly, recovery and rest are key.
Before a game, the first step is preparing mentally and psychologically. Once your mindset is right, everything else—the physical training and game strategy—falls into place.
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Question: How do you handle competition for places in the squad?
Answer: Competition brings out the best in a player.
It pushes you to put in more effort, work harder, and improve every day. For me, competition in the team makes me stronger and a better player.
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Challenges & Women’s Football Development
Question: Do you think there’s enough support and investment in women’s football in Nigeria? What areas need improvement?
Answer: No, there isn’t enough support or investment in women’s football compared to men’s football.
Here are three key areas that need improvement:
1. Players’ Welfare – Clubs and the league must prioritize the well-being of players.
2. Fair Play Mentality – The “home team must win” mindset should be addressed. This season is better, and I must commend the league body for its improvements.
3. Media & Marketing – Clubs need to invest in better social media presence, quality video coverage, and professional photography. These factors attract sponsors and agents.
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Question: How do you handle criticism, both from fans and the media?
Answer: Lol—If there’s no criticism, then you’re not doing something right.
What matters is putting in your best in every game and leaving the rest to God.
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Achievements & Future Goals
Question: What has been your proudest achievement as a footballer so far?
Answer: I’m yet to win my first league medal, but winning the FA Cup with Abia Angels FC was a proud moment.
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Question: What personal and team goals are you working towards?
Answer: My main goal is winning the league and representing Nigeria and West Africa in the CAF Women’s Champions League.
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Question: Do you aspire to play in top European leagues or experience football in other countries?
Answer: Definitely! We are all working hard to achieve that dream.
By God’s grace, I will be celebrated like others who have made it to Europe.
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Off-Pitch Life & Inspiration
Question: How do you balance your football career with your personal life?
Answer: For me, work comes first before pleasure.
But that doesn’t mean I don’t make time for family, friends, and other important aspects of life.
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Question: Outside football, what are some of your hobbies or passions?
Answer: Apart from football, I love rugby!
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Question: Do you have any advice for young girls who aspire to become professional footballers?
Answer: Never give up.
Keep working hard. Even if you fail many times, dust yourself off and try again.
I wish all aspiring footballers success!
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Rapid-Fire Questions (For Fun & Engagement)
Question: Favorite footballer of all time?
Answer: Cristiano Ronaldo GOAT!
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Question: Toughest opponent you’ve ever faced?
Answer: Chinagorom Uroko—one of the best defenders in the NWFL.
She is tall, aggressive, strong, and great with the ball. Definitely my toughest opponent so far.
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Question: Pre-match ritual or superstition?
Answer: First, I call my mom. Then, I communicate with God in prayers.
I also listen to inspiring music.
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Question: Dream club you’d love to play for one day?
Answer: Manchester United Women FC.
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Final Thoughts
Ijeoma Okeke’s journey is one of resilience, passion, and determination. From overcoming early struggles to excelling at Edo Queens, she continues to dream big. With her sights set on winning the league and playing in Europe, she is a player to watch in Nigerian women’s football.
