Esther Okoronkwo Wins First Major Title with AFC Toronto, Strengthens Case for Africa’s Best Female Footballer
Written by Alonge Akinlolu on 21 — 10
Nigeria’s Super Falcons forward, Esther Okoronkwo, has celebrated her first major title with AFC Toronto, marking a remarkable start to her career in Canada’s Northern Super League (NSL).
The 27-year-old attacker joined AFC Toronto in February 2025, and her impact has been immediate. According to the club’s official website, Okoronkwo’s creativity and attacking flair have been key to the team’s dominance this season, culminating in their capture of the NSL’s inaugural Supporters’ Shield after finishing top of the regular-season table.
Before her move to North America, Okoronkwo played professionally for AS Saint-Étienne in France, UDG Tenerife in Spain, and Changchun Dazhong in China.
Her form for both club and country has spectacular. At the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), the Nigerian forward was one of the standout performers, contributing two goals and six assists in six matches as the Super Falcons claimed their record extending 10th continental title. She was also voted Woman of the Match in the final and named the Super Falcons Fans’ Player of the Tournament.
Okoronkwo continued that momentum in Canada, scoring crucial goals, including a long range strike in AFC Toronto’s 2–0 win over Montreal Roses FC and providing several assists throughout the season.
Although official league statistics have yet to confirm her as the NSL’s top assist provider, Okoronkwo’s consistent performances have earned her recognition as one of Africa’s most in form female footballers in 2025.
With her strong showings across both continents, Okoronkwo could be a leading contender for the CAF Women’s Player of the Year 2025 award.
