Esther Okoronkwo made her mark once again for AFC Toronto, recording both a goal and an assist in the team’s 3–1 comeback victory over Halifax Tides, www.aclsports.com reports.
Just days before linking up with the Nigeria national team for their upcoming WAFCON preparations, the forward was instrumental as Toronto recovered from an early setback after Halifax opened the scoring in the 6th minute. The home team found their response midway through the first half, when Kaylee Hunter produced a brilliant long-range strike to level the score at 1–1, setting the stage for a strong second-half push.
As the home side pressed for the lead, Okoronkwo was lively in attack, finding space between the lines, linking up well with teammates, and consistently pressuring the visiting defense. In the 54th minute, she turned provider, slipping a perfectly timed through ball to Hunter, who calmly slotted home her second of the game to give Toronto a 2–1 lead.
Moments later, Okoronkwo got on the scoresheet herself. After a neat exchange in midfield, Hunter returned the favor with a well-weighted pass. The Nigerian forward latched onto it, rounded the goalkeeper, and finished confidently to make it 3–1, her fourth goal of the season.
She was substituted in the 75th minute after a composed and effective performance, having helped her side secure three valuable points.
The 28-year-old now turns her attention to international duty, joining the Super Falcons squad in Lisbon for a friendly against Portugal, followed by a clash with Ghana before WAFCON kicks off. With her club form peaking at the right time, Okoronkwo will be one to watch as the nine-time African champions chase continental glory.
