Esther Okoronkwo Wins Fan-Voted Player of the Tournament at WAFCON

Esther Okoronkwo, the 27 year old forward for the Super Falcons, has been voted the Fans’ Player of the Tournament at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), according to the official post on the team’s X account.𐌀 She received a majority vote in a public poll, surpassing teammates including Rasheedat Ajibade, Folashade Ijamilusi, Ashleigh Plumptre, Chiwendu Ihezuo and Jennifer Echegini.

Over six matches, Okoronkwo delivered two goals and six assists, earning two Woman of the Match awards in the process. Her pivotal contributions included a composed penalty and key assists in the thrilling 3‑2 comeback victory over hosts Morocco in the final.

Recognised for her impact both on the pitch and in the hearts of fans, she has also been included in the CAF Team of the Tournament alongside fellow Nigerians Chiamaka Nnadozie, Michelle Alozie and captain Rasheedat Ajibade.

Editorial

We proudly acknowledge Esther Okoronkwo’s crowning as the Fans’ Player of the Tournament—a reflection not just of her skill, but of the connection she forged with supporters across the continent. Her influence transcended goals and assists. In high-pressure moments, she delivered. Her composure from the penalty spot drew Nigeria level in Rabat’s electric final, and her vision unlocked Morocco’s defence with a clever assist. That was followed by an inch-perfect set-piece pass to Jennifer Echegini that sealed another historic Super Falcons triumph.

Yet most telling is that the award came from fans themselves. Their vote sends a clear message: they value bravery, flair and match-winning moments. Okoronkwo embodied all of that in a tournament where Nigeria reclaimed their continental crown.

This recognition is timely too. As women’s football expands globally, players who deliver in clutch situations become beacons especially for younger audiences tuning in via social platforms. It’s no surprise that Okoronkwo’s performances resonated as deeply as they did.

We see her win as more than a personal accolade it reflects the role models emerging in African women’s football. Okoronkwo has charted a course others will follow combine technical excellence with emotional intelligence and connect with fans at every level.

This success should inspire investment on and off the pitch. When players like her shine, the tournament’s value grows, and the potential of Nigerian women’s football becomes ever clearer. We expect that this recognition signals a new era of visibility and ambition.

Did You Know?

1. Despite being overshadowed by official awards, fan-voted accolades like this highlight players’ popularity more than technical panels.
2. Okoronkwo played a starring role in Nigeria’s unbeaten campaign at WAFCON, averaging an assist per match or scoring herself in most knockout rounds.
3. She earned two separate Woman of the Match awards: one in the quarter-final and another in the final thanks to her decisive contributions.
4. Her inclusion in CAF’s official Team of the Tournament came alongside Chiamaka Nnadozie, Michelle Alozie and captain Rasheedat Ajibade.
5. Okoronkwo’s heroics helped secure Nigeria’s record-extending 10th WAFCON title, in the most dramatic final in tournament history.