The Super Falcons forward provided the decisive assist as AFC Toronto defeated Montreal Roses 2–1 to lift the inaugural Northern Super League Supporters’ Shield on Sunday, which marks a historic first title for both club and player.
Montreal took an early lead through Alexandria Hess in the 10th minute before Sarah Stratigakis levelled the score for Toronto late in the first half. With just four minutes remaining, Okoronkwo slipped a clever pass to Nikayla Small, who fired home the winner to seal a comeback victory.
It was Okoronkwo’s seventh assist of the regular season, ensuring she finished as the league’s top provider. Her creativity and attacking influence have been central to Toronto’s success, with the Abia-born striker also contributing eight goals in the campaign.
AFC Toronto concluded the regular season top of the table with 16 wins, six losses, and three draws, heading into November’s playoffs with strong momentum.
Speaking after the triumph, Okoronkwo expressed her pride in making history with the team.
“It feels really good. It’s really amazing. We worked very hard for it from the beginning of the season, so to see our dream accomplished makes us very happy,” she told the Northern Super League.Thank you so much for always supporting us and coming out, whether it’s hot, rainy, or cold. You’ve always been here for us, and we truly appreciate it,” the 26-year-old also said, appreciating the supporters.Her impact, however, extends well beyond the Canadian borders. Okoronkwo has also been instrumental for the Super Falcons, leading Nigeria to their record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title earlier this year.She finished the tournament with two goals and six assists, which established her as the most creative forward at the showpiece event.
Okoronkwo was a central figure in Nigeria’s triumphant run, turning in decisive performances in the knockout stages.In the quarter-final clash against Zambia, she scored once and registered two assists in a commanding 5–0 victory, as the Falcons cruised into the semi-finalsNigeria’s Esther Okoronkwo is fast becoming one of Africa’s most influential footballers in 2025, following another milestone achievement in what has been a career-defining year to lift the inaugural Northern Super League Supporters’ Shield on Sunday, which marks histoty.
Her creativity and attacking influence have been central to Toronto’s success, with the Abia-born striker also contributing eight goals in the campaign.
