The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially unveiled the nominees for the prestigious CAF Women’s Player of the Year award, with Super Falcons’ stars Rasheedat Ajibade and Esther Okoronkwo earning spots among the continent’s elite. Their impressive performances throughout the year, particularly during the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), have once again placed Nigeria in the spotlight of African women’s football. Ajibade and Okoronkwo’s Impact on the Super Falcons Rasheedat Ajibade, known for her exceptional leadership and technical brilliance, played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s journey through the 2024 WAFCON. Her sharp attacking instincts and consistency made her one of the most influential forwards in the competition. Esther Okoronkwo, on the other hand, showcased her attacking prowess with two crucial goals and six assists, making her one of the tournament’s standout performers. Her creative playmaking and ability to link up with the midfield were instrumental in ensuring the Super Falcons maintained dominance throughout the tournament. Nigeria’s Legacy in African Women’s Football The Super Falcons have long been a dominant force in African women’s football, and these nominations reaffirm the team’s status as a powerhouse on the continent. Over the years, Nigerian players such as Asisat Oshoala have set high standards, and Ajibade and Okoronkwo are continuing that legacy with distinction. Their recognition at the CAF Awards 2025 not only celebrates individual excellence but also reflects the team’s resilience, unity, and the growing influence of Nigerian female players on the global stage. The CAF Awards: Honoring Excellence in African Football The CAF Awards remain the most prestigious celebration of African football achievements. Players, coaches, and teams who have made significant contributions to the sport are honored for their dedication and impact both on and off the pitch. According to CAF the 2025 edition of the awards will highlight Africa’s growing presence in world football, emphasizing women’s football as one of the fastest-growing sectors. With Ajibade and Okoronkwo among the nominees, Nigerian fans are hopeful that one of their own will lift the coveted trophy and continue the nation’s proud tradition in the category. What This Nomination Means for Nigerian Football The nominations are not just personal achievements but also a reflection of Nigeria’s strong developmental programs in women’s football. The recognition may inspire younger female athletes across the country to pursue football professionally, further boosting the sport’s profile and strengthening Nigeria’s future squads. Both players’ journeys from grassroots football to continental recognition highlight the importance of perseverance, teamwork, and passion — values deeply rooted in the Super Falcons’ history.
In a dramatic showdown at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), Chiwendu Ihezuo emerged as the match-winner for the Super Falcons, propelling Nigeria into the quarter-final stage with a narrow 1-0 triumph over Botswana. The encounter began with both teams competing intensely for dominance, but it was Nigeria’s Super Falcons who controlled the majority of possession in the early stages of the game. Botswana, known as the Mares, tried their luck with a few long-range attempts. However, none of those posed any serious threat to the Nigerian defense or goalkeeper. Missed Opportunities in the First Half The first clear-cut opportunity of the match came in the 23rd minute. Nigeria’s dynamic left-back, Ashleigh Plumptre, connected with a well-placed pass from Toni Payne, but unfortunately, her shot flew wide of the goalpost, missing a chance to put the Falcons ahead. As the pressure on Botswana’s defense increased, Nigeria almost found the breakthrough in the 36th minute. Payne, who had been lively throughout the half, found herself with a chance inside the box. However, the Everton midfielder failed to keep her shot on target, allowing Botswana to escape unscathed. Second Half Changes Shift the Momentum After a goalless first half, head coach Justine Madugu made strategic changes to ignite the Falcons’ attack. The trio of Esther Okoronkwo, Christy Ucheibe, and Chiwendu Ihezuo were brought on as substitutes, replacing Asisat Oshoala, Toni Payne, and Rasheedat Ajibade. Despite dominating possession, Nigeria found it difficult to break down Botswana’s compact defensive setup. However, the persistence paid off when Jennifer Echegini came close to scoring with a near miss just twelve minutes before full-time. Ihezuo’s Moment of Brilliance Seals the Victory As the game approached stoppage time, the Super Falcons finally found their winning moment. In the 90th minute, Chiwendu Ihezuo made no mistake, sliding home a precise cross from Esther Okoronkwo. The goal was a reward for Nigeria’s sustained attacking pressure and strategic substitutions. With the hard-fought victory, Nigeria secured a deserved place in the quarter-finals of WAFCON 2024, boosting their campaign as one of the tournament favorites.
