Super Falcons forward Esther Okoronkwo says Nigeria’s historic TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) Morocco 2024 triumph has only strengthened her determination to help the team retain their continental crown and qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
The AFC Toronto striker reflected on her remarkable journey from suffering a career-threatening anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury that ruled her out of the 2022 WAFCON to becoming one of Nigeria’s standout performers during the team’s successful title-winning campaign in Morocco.
Okoronkwo finished the tournament as the leading assist provider with six assists in six matches, including the decisive cross that set up Jennifer Echegini’s dramatic winning goal in the final against hosts Morocco.
Speaking in an interview with CAFOnline.com, the Abia State-born forward described winning Nigeria’s 10th WAFCON title as one of the biggest moments of her career.
“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. I could have been at the 2022 tournament, but I tore my ACL,” she said.
She admitted that lifting the trophy has significantly increased her profile, with more Nigerians recognising and appreciating her contributions.
“More Nigerians know me now. When I go to places, people recognise me. It is always love, and I appreciate it.”
Okoronkwo also expressed pride in helping Nigeria maintain its status as Africa’s leading women’s football nation.
“It is a huge achievement. We have remained number one in Africa for many years, and that means a lot to us.”
The forward revealed that being nominated for the CAF Awards following her impressive WAFCON campaign was a special moment, although she insists individual accolades are secondary to team success.
“My focus is on repeating history and retaining the trophy. Winning with Nigeria means more to me than any individual award.”
Looking ahead to the next WAFCON, Okoronkwo believes the Super Falcons must approach every opponent with respect despite their status as defending champions.
“It is a tough competition, and any country can surprise you. We cannot take any team for granted. We have to prepare properly and continue improving.”
She also credited head coach Justine Madugu for allowing her to express herself freely in attack.
“He gives me the freedom to play my game. I can play as a number nine, drop deeper, and express myself without being restricted.”
Despite finishing as the tournament’s top assist provider, Okoronkwo insists there is still room for improvement.
“I want to find my teammates even more often, improve my deliveries, and become an even better team player. There is always room to improve.”
She highlighted the strong bond within the Super Falcons squad as one of the key factors behind their success, particularly her understanding with fellow forward Chinwendu Ihezuo.
“We are sisters on and off the pitch. We love and care about one another, and that chemistry naturally shows during matches.”
With the next edition of the tournament set to feature 16 teams for the first time, Okoronkwo welcomed the expansion, saying it would further develop women’s football across Africa.
“I think it is great. More countries deserve the opportunity to compete and show what they can do. It is good for African football.”
As Nigeria prepares to defend its continental title while chasing qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, Okoronkwo says the team’s objective remains unchanged.
“There will always be pressure, but we want to retain the trophy. Qualification for the World Cup is also a major goal. With the right attitude, mentality, and continued support from Nigerians, I believe we can achieve it.”
