Esther Okoronkwo, striker for the Super Falcons, has earned her inaugural nomination for the CAF Women’s Player of the Year award, according to Soccernet.ng.
This recognition celebrates her outstanding performances both at club level and her pivotal role in securing Nigeria’s 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations championship.
Okoronkwo, alongside fellow Nigerian Rasheedat Ajibade, will contend with notable talents such as Mama Diop, Sanna Mssoudy, Tabitha Chawinga, and Temwa in the prestigious award race.
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Okoronkwo’s meteoric rise throughout 2025 has been remarkable, with statistics suggesting she could surpass rivals Temwa Chawinga and Barbra Banda in the quest for the CAF Women’s Player of the Year accolade.
Okoronkwo’s Impact at Club Level
At AFC Toronto, Okoronkwo has been the driving force behind the Canadian club’s success, leading them to clinch the Northern Super League Shield in their debut season.
She wrapped up the season with an impressive tally of 8 goals and topped the league charts with 7 assists, establishing herself as one of the most influential forwards in the competition.
Her dual threat of scoring and playmaking has consistently troubled defenders, making her the standout player in the Northern Super League’s inaugural campaign.
Key Contributor to Super Falcons’ WAFCON Victory
Internationally, the 26-year-old forward was instrumental in Nigeria’s triumphant journey at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
She delivered two goals and provided six assists, playing a vital role in securing Nigeria’s 10th continental crown.
Few African players have matched her combined influence for club and country this year.
Comparing Okoronkwo with Chawinga and Banda
Her main rivals, Malawi’s Temwa Chawinga and Zambia’s Barbra Banda, have also enjoyed standout seasons.
Chawinga netted 15 goals and contributed three assists for Kansas City Current, helping them capture the NWSL Shield in the United States.
Banda scored 8 goals and assisted twice for Orlando Pride, although her team fell short of winning any major trophies.
When evaluating overall goal contributions and silverware impact, Okoronkwo’s achievements stand out. In 2025, she has been directly involved in over 20 goals and has lifted two significant trophies-the WAFCON title and the Northern Super League Shield-accomplishments that few on the continent can rival this year.
Should CAF prioritize influence, statistics, and trophies in their decision, Esther Okoronkwo presents a compelling case to be named Africa’s top female footballer in 2025, ahead of Chawinga and Banda.
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