Super Falcons star, Esther Okoronkwo, has opened up about the emotional journey behind Nigeria’s historic 10th CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title and the nation’s ambition of defending their continental crown.
Okoronkwo’s rise to becoming one of the Super Falcons’ most influential players has been built on resilience and an unwavering belief in her abilities. Once sidelined by a devastating anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in 2022, she transformed adversity into inspiration.
The AFC Toronto striker played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s triumphant 2024 WAFCON campaign in Morocco, finishing as the tournament’s leading assist provider with six assists while also producing decisive moments.
Okoronkwo’s performances earned widespread acclaim and a nomination at the CAF Awards, cementing her status among the continent’s elite players.
In an interview, she reflected on Nigeria’s historic 10th WAFCON title, overcoming career-threatening injuries and working under head coach Justine Madugu.
“It feels great to win our tenth title because we went through a lot, both individually and as a team. Several players were returning from injuries, including me,” she said. “I could have been at the 2022 tournament, but I tore my ACL.”
“Coming into the 2024 tournament, I did not place huge expectations on myself, although I knew there were high expectations for the team. I was happy for myself and the team that we won the tournament and brought the trophy home.”
More Nigerians know me now. When I go to places, people recognise me. It is always love. I appreciate the little things, and the reception is always loving,” Okoronkwo explained.
Born in Abia State before relocating to the United States, Okoronkwo’s football journey has taken her from collegiate football in Texas to professional stints in France, Spain, China and now Canada.
However, it is in the green and white jersey of Nigeria that she believes she has truly found her purpose, flourishing under head coach Madugu, who has given her the freedom to express herself in attack.
“He (Madugu) started coaching us in 2023, after the World Cup. Every coach is different and has individual tactics and expectations,” she mentioned.
“It is good to have a coach who allows you to express yourself on the field. Under him, I can play freely as a number nine without being restricted to one position. I can drop deeper and express myself.”
Okoronkwo has enjoyed an excellent spell with the Super Falcons under coach Madugu and will be look to secure another continental title under his leadership.
The Nigerian forward stated their expectations for the upcoming WAFCON tournament and her anticipated role in the team.
“We want to repeat history and win it again. It is always good to win back-to-back titles. There is pressure, but we want to retain the trophy,” she said.
“My role is to help the team, just as I expect the other ten players on the field to do. Attitude and mentality will play a huge part. As long as we all have the right attitude and mentality, we will be fine.”
Nigeria won when the WAFCON tournament had eight teams, then twelve, and now it has sixteen. Okoronkwo stated the expansion of the tournament adds pressure, especially as the competition also serves as qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
“There will always be pressure,” the forward said. “What matters is how we handle it as a team. Qualification for the World Cup is the ultimate goal.”
“Every other country will also fight for one of the four qualification places. It will be an exciting and significant tournament, and I am looking forward to it.”
