Nigerian football star Esther Okoronkwo has expressed her disappointment after being excluded from the finalists for the CAF Women’s Player of the Year award. Posting on Instagram, she thanked fans across Africa for their support but made it clear her focus remains on her performance on the pitch.
“I remain grateful for the support across Africa. CAF’s decision is noted, but my focus stays on the pitch — where recognition is earned not awarded,” Okoronkwo wrote.
The forward’s impressive season statistics speak volumes: 31 games played, 14 goals scored, and 16 assists provided. She is the 2024 WAFCON champion, NSL 2025 Shield winner, the top assist leader in NSL 2025, and a silver medalist in the NSL playoffs. Despite these achievements, she was controversially overlooked for the WAFCON 2024 Player of the Tournament award.
Critics have pointed out that Okoronkwo’s stats outshine those of the top three finalists combined. They also highlighted that the two Moroccan players nominated compete in leagues considered unranked in the world of women's football. For instance, Morjana Chebbak has not recorded any goals or assists for her club in Saudi Arabia this season, while Okoronkwo’s performances have been consistently impactful.
Another nominee, Mssoudy, was described as a “top 3 miss,” having scored only a handful of goals across CAF Champions League and national team matches, with much of her reputation resting on potential rather than performance.
Okoronkwo’s response calls attention to what many see as a contest influenced more by agenda and popularity than by merit and excellence on the pitch.
This episode has sparked debate across the continent about fairness and recognition in African women's football awards, with many rallying behind Esther Okoronkwo as a deserving candidate who continues to excel despite the setback.
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