Maryam Ladkani is a dynamic young forward bridging her life between California and Lebanon. Currently featuring for San José State University in the U.S., she has also earned recognition with Lebanon’s U20 national team, showcasing her goal-scoring flair and footballing ambition.
Early Life & Development
Born and raised in Santa Clara, California, Maryam excelled at Granada Islamic High School, where she starred on her high school team and earned academic honors. Her dual Lebanese-American identity has given her a unique pathway in football—combining U.S. training systems with international opportunity.
Club and College Role
Maryam joined the San José State Spartans as a freshman in 2025. Even early in her college career, she’s already making headlines—earning a spot on Lebanon’s U20 squad and scoring decisive goals in notable youth competitions like the 2024 Surf Cup. Known for her pace and instinct in front of goal, she balances her academic studies with training and matches at NCAA level.
International Recognition with Lebanon
In June 2025, Maryam was selected for the Lebanon U20 Women’s National Team ahead of their AFC Women’s Asian Cup qualifier campaign in China. She has previously represented Lebanon at both youth and senior levels, demonstrating growing trust from national selectors. Her call-up underscores her emerging presence in the Lebanese football structure.
Playing Style & Strengths
Maryam plays as a forward known for:
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Goal instinct: In high school tournaments, she scored decisive winning goals and earned accolades for finishing under pressure.
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Attack-minded mobility: Her movement off the ball creates space and disrupts defenses.
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Dual-system adaptability: Balanced between U.S. fast-paced collegiate football and structured international setups.
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Academic-athlete mindset: Honor roll student with a disciplined skill-and-study approach.
Key Highlights & Early Achievements
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Named to Lebanon’s U20 national team in mid‑2025, ahead of AFC qualifiers.
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Scored two game-winning goals during the 2024 Surf Cup—a high-level youth competition.
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Early academic and athletic balance recognized in both school and college contexts.
Future Outlook
Still early in her football journey, Maryam aims to:
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Cement her role as a regular goal threat for Lebanon at youth and senior levels
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Build her skills and stats with the Spartans and potentially explore professional pathways after college
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Serve as a bridge between Lebanese diaspora talent and domestic football progress
Conclusion
Maryam Ladkani is building momentum as both a student-athlete and international footballer. At just 18 and entering her college journey, she’s already demonstrating goal-scoring instincts, international promise, and maturity. With her dual heritage, strong academic grounding, and early international call-ups, she’s one to watch as Lebanon invests in its next generation of football talent.
