Nigerian Super Falcons Duo Compete for CAF’s Esteemed Honors
Nigeria’s football landscape is currently illuminated by the nominations of Rasheedat Ajibade and Esther Okoronkwo as frontrunners for the prestigious 2025 CAF Women’s Player of the Year award.
Ajibade and Okoronkwo: Nigeria’s Leading Lights
Rasheedat Ajibade was instrumental in Nigeria’s triumphant campaign at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), where she helped steer the Super Falcons to their record-breaking 10th continental title.
After Nigeria’s victory over Morocco secured their 10th WAFCON crown, captain Rasheedat Ajibade was named Player of the Tournament, while Chiamaka Nnadozie earned recognition as the best goalkeeper.
The Paris Saint-Germain forward consistently impressed, securing the Woman of the Match award in half of Nigeria’s fixtures and ultimately being honored as the tournament’s standout player, cementing her status as one of Africa’s elite footballers.
Equally impressive was Esther Okoronkwo, who showcased her talents throughout the tournament. Playing for AFC Toronto, she contributed two goals and six assists, earning the Woman of the Match award in the final by scoring and assisting to help clinch the title for Nigeria.
Esther Okoronkwo remains a vital asset for the Super Falcons | Credit: Instagram/Super Falcons NG
Her energetic and decisive play was a key factor in Nigeria’s continental triumph, earning her a deserved place among the top nominees.
Nigeria’s Broad Impact Across CAF Award Categories
Nigeria’s prominence extends beyond the Player of the Year nominations. Chiamaka Nnadozie, goalkeeper for Paris FC, is vying for her third consecutive Goalkeeper of the Year award.
Both the Super Falcons and the Flamingos have been nominated for the National Team of the Year, while Moshood Shakirat is listed among the contenders for the Best Young Player award.
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Justine Madugu, head coach of the Super Falcons, competes alongside Sonia Bompastor, Arthur Elias, Renée Slegers, and Sarina Wiegman for the Women’s Team Coach of the Year award.
Additionally, Bankole Olowookere from the Flamingos and Super Falcons’ head coach Justine Madugu are nominated for the Women’s Coach of the Year honor.
The 2025 CAF Awards promises to be a milestone occasion for Nigerian football, as the nation strives to reaffirm its supremacy on the African stage.