The Fan Favourite: Esther Okoronkwo Earns Super Falcons’ Fans’ Top Honour After Electrifying WAFCON 2025 Performance

Esther Okoronkwo has been crowned the Super Falcons’ Fans Player of the Tournament at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, an award that celebrates not only her footballing prowess but also the admiration she has earned from supporters across the continent. The accolade, announced through the team’s official X (formerly Twitter) account, caps a tournament in which she proved to be a relentless force on the pitch.

Throughout the six games she featured in, Okoronkwo emerged as a dynamic threat in the attacking third. She scored twice, but it was her ability to create chances that truly set her apart. With six assists to her name, she played a pivotal role in driving Nigeria’s offense. Her link-up play, vision, and composure under pressure allowed her to consistently carve open opposing defenses, making her an indispensable part of the Super Falcons’ journey to WAFCON glory.

Supporters were drawn not just to her statistics but also to her flair, work ethic, and leadership. The 27-year-old forward brought a sense of calm and authority to every match, attributes that earned her two Woman of the Match awards during the competition. Whether through incisive passes or off-the-ball movement, Okoronkwo’s football intelligence stood out.

Her performances peaked during Nigeria’s title-winning match against host nation Morocco, where the Super Falcons claimed a hard-fought 3-2 victory. Though she didn’t score in the final, her influence on the game was unmistakable. She orchestrated much of the attacking build-up and kept the Moroccan defense occupied, giving her teammates the space and opportunities they needed to make decisive contributions.

The voting process for the Fans’ Player of the Tournament saw Okoronkwo edge out several other standout Super Falcons players. Rasheedat Ajibade, Folashade Ijamilusi, Ashleigh Plumptre, Chiwendu Ihezuo, and Jennifer Echegini were among the nominated players, each of whom had a strong tournament. Still, it was Okoronkwo’s consistency, versatility, and impact in key moments that ultimately won over the fans.

The recognition comes at a high point in her career, one that has seen steady growth in both domestic and international football. Her football journey, marked by determination and quiet tenacity, has seen her rise through the ranks to become one of the most trusted names in Nigerian women’s football. Fans and pundits alike have often praised her ability to rise to the occasion, especially in high-pressure situations, a trait that came to the forefront repeatedly at WAFCON 2025.

Social media erupted in celebration after the announcement. Comments poured in from supporters who felt the award was a fitting tribute to a player who exemplified excellence and team spirit. Many referred to her as “clutch” and “composed,” echoing the official announcement made by the Super Falcons’ X account, which described her as being “crowned by the people.”

Off the field, Okoronkwo has also become a role model to many young aspiring footballers, particularly young women looking to break into professional sports. Her humility and quiet leadership contrast sharply with the noise and spectacle of elite football, making her an inspiration for those who value grace and dedication over self-promotion.

While the WAFCON 2025 tournament is now in the rearview mirror, the legacy of Okoronkwo’s contribution remains vivid. Her name is now etched among the greats of Nigerian women’s football, not merely for her statistics but for the way she played the game and the respect she commanded from teammates, coaches, and fans alike.

Looking ahead, all eyes will be on what comes next for her. Whether on the club stage or in upcoming international fixtures, there is little doubt that Esther Okoronkwo will continue to be a central figure in Nigerian football. Her WAFCON performance has laid down a marker for what excellence looks like, and it is clear that her journey is far from over.

Her fans, both old and new, will surely be watching closely.