Esther Okoronkwo: Six Things to Know About Super Falcons Star with Six Assists At WAFCON 2024

Esther Okoronkwo has become one of the shining lights of Nigerian women’s football, playing a pivotal role in the Super Falcons’ historic triumph at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), according to sports247.

Here are six key things to know about the versatile forward who lit up the continental stage in Morocco.

Born in Abia State But Not Related to Former Super Eagles International

Though born in Abia State, Nigeria, Okoronkwo moved to the United States at a young age, growing up in Richmond, Texas. She attended John and Randolph Foster High School before moving on to Northeast Texas Community College and later Lamar University, where she further developed her football skills.

Contrary to speculation, she is not related to former Super Eagles defender Isaac Okoronkwo.

Club Legend at AFC Toronto

In February 2025, Okoronkwo signed with Canadian club AFC Toronto in the newly launched Northern Super League. She wasted no time making history, scoring both goals in the team’s first-ever victory—a 2-1 win over Calgary Wild FC. Her performance instantly cemented her status as a club legend and a fan favorite.

Making Her Mark with the Super Falcons

Okoronkwo debuted for Nigeria’s senior women’s team on June 10, 2021, in a friendly against Jamaica. She scored her first international goal less than a year later, netting the winner in a crucial 2022 WAFCON qualifier against Ivory Coast that secured Nigeria’s place in the tournament.

A Game-Changer at WAFCON 2024

At 28, Okoronkwo finally made her long-awaited WAFCON debut in Morocco after missing the 2022 edition due to an ACL injury. She played a decisive role throughout the competition, tallying six assists and scoring a vital goal. In the dramatic 3-2 final victory over Morocco, she converted a pressure penalty and provided the match-winning assist, guiding Nigeria to a record-extending 10th title.

Global Experience, Nigerian Pride

Okoronkwo’s football journey spans multiple continents, having played for Saint Etienne (France), Costa Adeje Tenerife (Spain), and Changchun Dazhong Zhuoyue (China) before joining AFC Toronto. This wealth of international experience is evident in her intelligent movement, creativity, and ability to thrive in big moments for the Super Falcons.

Advocate for Women’s Football Growth

Off the pitch, Okoronkwo is passionate about advancing women’s football in Nigeria and across Africa. “We need all the support we can get,” she says. “Women’s football is growing larger. The more people watch it, the more it keeps growing.” She credits fans for their unwavering backing during WAFCON 2024, calling them the driving force behind the team’s success.

From overcoming injury heartbreak to leading Nigeria to continental glory, Esther Okoronkwo has emerged as one of Africa’s most complete attackers and an inspiration to young girls aspiring to wear the green and white of the Super Falcons.