Esther Okoronkwo Slams CAF After Missing Out on Women’s Player of the Year Final List
Super Falcons forward Esther Okoronkwo has criticised the Confederation of African Football (CAF) after she was left out of the final shortlist for the 2025 Women’s Player of the Year award.
Okoronkwo had earlier been included in the 10-player provisional list and was widely tipped to make the final cut following her remarkable year for club and country. However, her name was missing when CAF released the final three nominees, which include Nigeria’s Rasheedat Ajibade and Morocco’s Ghizlane Chebbak and Sanaa Mssoudy.
The decision came as a shock to many, considering Okoronkwo’s strong performances. She recorded one goal and six assists for Nigeria at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. At club level, she enjoyed a standout season, helping AFC Toronto win the inaugural NSL Shield in September.
Reacting on social media, Okoronkwo did not hide her disappointment.
“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. Awards don’t always reflect reality but the pitch never lies,” she wrote on Instagram.
Her comments have drawn support from fans who believe she deserved a place among Africa’s best this year.
