Esther Okoronkwo is gradually sealing her status as one of Africa’s premier football stars after delivering yet another impressive performance for AFC Toronto in the Northern Super League on Sunday.
The Super Falcons forward played an important role in guiding Toronto to their first-ever Northern Super League Regular Season title.
Esther Okoronkwo’s impact on Toronto’s historic win
Okoronkwo’s influence was unmistakable throughout the season. She capped the regular campaign with an assist in Toronto’s 2-1 victory over Montreal Roses FC at York Lions Stadium as the team secured a total of 51 points from 25 matches — including 16 wins, three draws, and six defeats.
Over 20 matches, the 28-year-old recorded a remarkable 15 goal contributions, netting eight goals and setting up seven assists. Her creative spark was especially crucial in the showdown against Montreal.
Montreal came out strong, taking the lead in the 10th minute after Alexandria Hess capitalised on a lapse by Toronto goalkeeper Sierra Cota-Yarde.
But just before halftime, Lauren Rowe’s precise cross found Sarah Stratigakis, who equalised, making it 1-1.
The decisive moment arrived in the 68th minute when Okoronkwo delivered a perfectly timed assist to Kaylee Hunter, who scored her ninth goal of the season.
Momentum builds for CAF Women’s Player of the Year nominee
This victory propelled AFC Toronto to the top of the league standings ahead of the playoffs, riding the wave of momentum fuelled by Okoronkwo’s exceptional form.
With Okoronkwo recently receiving a nomination for the 2025 CAF Women’s Player of the Year award, she has positioned herself as a leading contender for the prestigious award.
Her season highlights also feature two goals and four assists during Nigeria’s march to their 10th WAFCON title, where she earned Woman of the Match honours in the final, contributing both a goal and an assist in a commanding display.
Looking forward, Esther Okoronkwo will now prepare to join the Super Falcons for their WAFCON 2026 qualifying double-header against Benin Republic, where she will be looking to maintain her remarkable form.
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