The Super Falcons have received a significant boost ahead of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations after forward Esther Okoronkwo completed her recovery from injury and moved closer to a return to competitive action.
The Nigerian international could make her comeback for AFC Toronto when they host Montreal Roses at York Lions Stadium on Saturday, ending a spell on the sidelines that has kept her out of both club and international duty.
Okoronkwo suffered a meniscus tear during just her second appearance of the Northern Super League season. The 28-year-old was forced off in the 39th minute of AFC Toronto’s goalless draw against Halifax Tides, with the injury ruling her out of five league matches.
Her absence also extended to the international stage, as she missed Nigeria’s recent friendly against Senegal’s Teranga Lionesses while continuing her rehabilitation.
The forward has now confirmed her recovery, sharing an encouraging update with supporters on social media.
“Back on my feet, mission enroute,” Okoronkwo wrote on Instagram alongside photographs from training.
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The timing of her return is particularly important for Nigeria, with the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations set to take place in Morocco in July. Okoronkwo was among the key figures in the Super Falcons squad that secured a record-extending 10th continental crown at the last edition of the tournament, and her return adds further depth to Nigeria’s attacking options ahead of the competition.
Her recovery is also welcome news for AFC Toronto, where she has established herself as one of the club’s most influential performers. Okoronkwo played a pivotal role during the club’s successful campaign that delivered the inaugural Northern Super League Supporters’ Shield.
She was also instrumental in helping AFC Toronto reach the NSL Championship Final, although the club ultimately fell to a narrow 2-1 defeat against Vancouver Rise.
