Super Falcons striker Esther Okoronkwo has been named AFC Toronto’s Player of the Month for September, Footynaija.com reports.
Okoronkwo’s latest recognition comes after an electrifying run of form that helped her side claim the first-ever Supporters’ Shield title in the National Soccer League (NSL).
The 28-year-old forward was the driving force behind Toronto’s dominant month, scoring and creating decisive goals when it mattered most.
Okoronkwo netted the match-winner in a 1–0 triumph over Halifax, before producing a spectacular display against Vancouver—scoring twice and providing an assist in a stunning 7–0 victory.
Okoronkwo continued to deliver when Toronto met Halifax again, scoring a late equaliser in a tense 1–1 draw. Her creativity shone once more in the 1–0 win over Ottawa, where her clever assist sealed the points and confirmed Toronto’s place at the top of the NSL standings.
The achievement earned the Canadian club a spot in the playoffs and a place in league history as the inaugural Supporters’ Shield winners.
The Nigerian forward’s club success caps an exceptional year that also saw her shine at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, where she played a crucial role in Nigeria’s record 10th title. The former Tenerife attacker provided goals and assists in the knockout rounds, against Zambia and South Africa as well as in the final win over Morocco.
Brimming with confidence, Okoronkwo now turns her focus to leading AFC Toronto’s playoff charge as they chase a historic league-and-cup double.