Super Falcons forward, Esther Okoronkwo, has reacted to missing out on CAF’s three-player shortlist for the African Women’s Player of the Year award, www.aclsports.com reports.
The Nigerian, who was part of the initial 10-player shortlist enjoyed a phenomenal season, tallying 27 goal contributions across all competitions.
She played a vital role in helping Nigeria lift the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2024 title, registering 2 goals and 6 assists at the tournament. In the final comeback win against Morocco, she had a hand in all three goals, scoring once and providing two assists, and was named Player of the Match.
At club level, she led AFC Toronto to the NSL Shield and narrowly lost 2–1 to Vancouver Rise in the Northern Super League final, adding 11 goals and 8 assists in league play.
Okoronkwo addressed the Player of the Year situation on her Instagram story, remaining gracious while reaffirming her commitment to excellence on the field:
“I remain grateful for the support across Africa. CAF’s decision is noted, but my focus stays on the pitch, where recognition is earned, not awarded. Awards don’t always reflect reality, but the pitch never lies.”
The CAF Awards will take place in Morocco on Wednesday, 19 November 2025, with one of Rasheedat Ajibade, Ghizlane Chebbak or Sanaâ Mssoudy set to be crowned African Women’s Player of the Year.
