Esther Okoronkwo is fast becoming a household name in Nigerian women’s football. From humble beginnings in Abia State to dazzling performances on the global stage, the Super Falcons forward is capturing attention with every match she plays.
Here are five key things you should know about this rising football sensation:
1. Born in Nigeria, Raised in the U.S. Esther Okoronkwo hails from Abia State but moved to the United States at a young age. Growing up in Richmond, Texas, she began her football journey in local schools—first at John and Randolph Foster High School, then at Northeast Texas Community College. She later transferred to Lamar University, where her talent blossomed on the collegiate football scene.
2. She’s Already a Club Legend at AFC Toronto In early 2025, Okoronkwo joined AFC Toronto in Canada’s newly established Northern Super League. She etched her name in club history by scoring both goals in a landmark 2-1 victory over Calgary Wild FC on May 1, 2025—Toronto’s first-ever win. Her impact was immediate, earning her praise from fans and teammates alike.
3. Making Her Mark with the Super Falcons Okoronkwo made her senior international debut for Nigeria in June 2021 against Jamaica. She scored her first goal for the Super Falcons in a high-stakes WAFCON 2022 qualifier against Ivory Coast, securing a vital 1-0 away win. Since then, she’s become a consistent presence in the national team setup.
4. A Game-Changer at WAFCON 2024 At the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, Okoronkwo delivered standout performances. She scored and assisted twice in the quarterfinals against Zambia. In the final against hosts Morocco, she was pivotal—scoring from the spot, assisting the equalizer, and delivering the free-kick that led to Nigeria’s dramatic 3-2 comeback victory. Her heroics helped secure the Super Falcons’ record 10th WAFCON title.
5. Flying the Flag on the World’s Biggest Stages Okoronkwo was part of Nigeria’s squad at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and earned a call-up again for the 2024 Summer Olympics. These selections solidify her status as a core player in Nigeria’s forward line and a beacon of hope for the future of Nigerian women’s football.
Esther Okoronkwo’s journey is only just beginning, but she’s already proving to be a force to reckon with—for club, country, and the next generation of football stars.
