Super Falcons striker Esther Okoronkwo inspires Toronto FC to playoff glory with sensational hat-trick

Super Falcons striker Esther Okoronkwo delivered a standout performance in the Canadian Northern Super League playoffs on Tuesday, scoring a sensational 27-minute hat-trick to lead Toronto FC to a commanding 4-1 victory over Montreal Roses.

The 28-year-old forward, who is among the nominees for the CAF Women’s Player of the Year award, showcased her class once again with a display of precision and power.

Okoronkwo opened the scoring in the 6th minute after calmly slotting home from close range following a well-placed square pass before doubling the advantage with a well-taken free-kick.

The enterprising attacker sealed his hat-trick in the 27^th-minute following a moment of brilliance from the Nigerian star. Okoronkwo dribbled past four defenders, and fired a low shot into the net in the 27th minute to complete her hat-trick.

Okoronkwo’s heroics have further strengthened her chances of winning Africa’s top individual prize, with only Zambia’s Barbra Banda and Nigeria’s captain Rasheedat Ajibade seen as her closest rivals.

The Super Falcons star was instrumental in Nigeria’s triumph at the last Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, turning the tide in the final against Morocco. Since joining Toronto FC, she has continued to impress, with her latest performance adding another highlight to a stellar season.

With the CAF Awards set for November 19 in Rabat, Morocco, Okoronkwo’s recent form may just seal her status as Africa’s best female footballer.