Super Falcons receive major WAFCON boost as Esther Okoronkwo returns from injury
Nigeria's preparations for the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) have received a significant lift following the return of forward Esther Okoronkwo, who is back in action after spending 56 days on the sidelines with injury.
The 29-year-old made her long-awaited comeback on Sunday, coming off the bench in the 65th minute for Sarah Stratigakis as AFC Toronto defeated Vancouver 3-1 in the Northern Super League. The victory ended the club's two-match winless run and marked Okoronkwo's first appearance since sustaining a meniscus injury in a goalless draw against Halifax on May 3.
The injury had cast doubt over her availability for this year's continental showpiece, but after returning to training earlier this month, the Super Falcons star has now completed her recovery at the perfect time for both club and country.
AFC Toronto struggled in her absence, managing just one win, alongside two draws and two defeats in five league outings, highlighting the impact of the Nigerian attacker in the final third.
Following a 1-1 first half, second-half goals from Lauren Rowe and Kaylee Hunter secured all three points for AFC Toronto, lifting the side to fourth in the league standings on 12 points, seven behind leaders Ottawa Rapid with a game in hand.
Okoronkwo heads into WAFCON on the back of an outstanding campaign in Morocco, where she played a pivotal role in Nigeria's record-extending 10th continental title. She finished the tournament with two goals and seven assists, emerging as one of the Super Falcons' most influential players.
Her return will be welcomed by head coach Justin Madugu, who now has one of his key attacking weapons back as Nigeria prepares to defend its African crown at the 2026 WAFCON, scheduled to take place in Morocco from July 25 to August 16.
The Super Falcons have been drawn in Group C, where they will face Zambia, Egypt and Malawi in their quest for another continental triumph.
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