Super Falcons forward Esther Okoronkwo has voiced her disappointment. After missing out on the final shortlist for the 2025 CAF Women’s Player of the Year award. Despite delivering one of the most impressive seasons by an African footballer in recent years.
The Nigerian striker was initially named in the 10-player provisional list and widely regarded as a strong contender for the final nominations. However, when CAF unveiled the shortlist on Sunday, her name was surprisingly absent. With the final contenders featuring Nigeria’s Rasheedat Ajibade alongside Morocco’s Ghizlaine Chebbak and Sanaa Mssoudy.
Reacting on Instagram, Okoronkwo admitted that the exclusion was disheartening. But made it clear that she remains focused on her performance on the pitch rather than awards. She stressed that accolades do not always tell the entire story. Adding that consistency during matches is the real measure of success.
According to her, she appreciates the support from fans across the continent but will continue to let her work on the field speak for itself. Her stance reflects confidence backed by an outstanding 2025 campaign.
At international level, she played a major role in helping Nigeria claim a historic 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations crown. During the tournament, she scored twice and provided six assists, earning Player of the Match in the final against hosts Morocco. In that dramatic showdown, she converted a crucial penalty and set up two decisive goals to seal a 3–2 victory.
Okoronkwo also excelled at club level, helping AFC Toronto secure the inaugural Northern Super League Supporters’ Shield. She recorded eight goals and seven assists, finishing as the top assist provider in the league. Her match-winning assist in the 2–1 victory over Montreal Roses ensured the club claimed its first-ever title. Despite the CAF omission, her more than 20 goal contributions. Also two major trophies in 2025 underscore her status as one of Africa’s most impactful players of the year.
