Granada CF Femenino secured a narrow yet decisive 1-0 victory against Madrid CFF on December 16, 2024, continuing their impressive run of form with three consecutive wins.
The match, held at the Ciudad Deportiva GCF, showcased the talents of Nigerian striker Edna Imade, who scored the game’s only goal and has now netted nine times this season, solidifying her position as one of the top scorers in the league.
From the onset, it was clear Granada’s players were motivated to dominate the match. Under the guidance of coach Arturo Ruiz, the team executed their game plan effectively, pushing the play wide and creating numerous scoring opportunities against their Madrid rivals.
Edna opened the scoring for the home side at the 19-minute mark following a swift counter-attack. A pass from Cristina Postigo deflected off a Madrid defender, allowing Edna to break free. She maintained her composure and directed her right-footed shot past goalkeeper Paola Ulloa, putting Granada ahead.
"El solitario gol de la nigeriana sirve para sumar la tercera victoria seguidas de las nazaríes," reported Diario AS, highlighting the importance of the goal and victory.
Granada continued to press the attack for much of the first half. Andrea Gómez came close to doubling the advantage, but her effort from the edge of the box went wide. With each passing minute, the home team increased their control, forcing Madrid CFF to focus on maintaining defensive solidity.
Despite their territorial dominance, the match remained close as Madrid attempted to counter. The visiting side generated some chances but struggled to break down Granada’s resilient defense. The first real threat from Madrid came only just before halftime, where they almost equalized with a close attempt by Mercetto.
Following the break, Madrid CFF introduced fresh legs to inject some vigor. Coach Juanjo Vila made tactical switches, hoping to alter the match’s narrative. Yet, Granada's well-organized defense stood firm.
Edna was once again involved and nearly added to her tally shortly after the second half commenced. Her audacious attempt at a lob from distance just skimmed over the crossbar, illustrating her confidence and threat level throughout the game.
Midway through the second half, Edna displayed her attacking prowess again, heading the ball from a well-placed corner, but Ulloa made a stunning save to deny the goal. Just as fast-paced as their first half, Granada found themselves on the cusp of scoring again with another attempt from Ari Mingueza crashing against the bar.
Despite all the pressure, Madrid CFF seized the moment on occasion, but each time, they were thwarted by the solid defensive performance of the home team, which ensured they would walk away with all three points.
After the final whistle, Edna Imade’s performance stood out, as she continued to demonstrate why she has become the star of the team. "Super Falcons prospect Edna Imade continued her remarkable run of form for Granada CF Women, scoring the decisive goal," as noted by The Guardian. Her scoring streak, combined with the team’s solid performances, positions Granada CF Femenino favorably as they continue competing this season.
The victory places Granada temporarily in sixth, solidifying their position as one of the standout teams of the Liga F. They have amassed 19 points after 13 matches, which includes six wins, one draw, and six losses along with 20 goals scored but 22 conceded, maintaining a -2 goal difference.
Looking forward, Granada will aim to continue this form as they prepare for their Copa del Rey matchup against Sevilla FC on December 21, which will be another opportunity for them to demonstrate their growing confidence and ambition.
