Esther Okoronkwo Responds to CAF Shortlist Omission, Stresses On-Field Performance

Esther Okoronkwo Responds to CAF Shortlist Omission, Stresses On-Field Performance

By Admin 

Super Falcons forward Esther Okoronkwo has responded to her omission from the final shortlist for the CAF Women’s Player of the Year Award, saying that true validation comes from performances on the field rather than award selections., BSNSports.com.ng reports

Widely regarded by fans and analysts as a strong contender for the top three, Okoronkwo expressed both gratitude and understated disappointment in an Instagram post following CAF’s announcement.

“I remain grateful for the support across Africa,” she wrote. “CAF’s decision is noted, but my focus stays on the pitch. Recognition is earned, not awarded. Awards don’t always reflect reality, but the pitch never lies.”

CAF on Thursday released its three-player shortlist for the prestigious continental award, with Super Falcons star Rasheedat Ajibade making the cut.

However, the announcement sparked debate among supporters after notable omissions, including Okoronkwo and Zambia’s Barbara Banda, both of whom delivered standout performances over the past year.

The final shortlist consists solely of players who featured in the WAFCON final:

Rasheedat Ajibade (PSG/Nigeria)

Ghizlane Chebbak (Al Hilal/Morocco)

Sanaa Mssoudy (AS FAR/Morocco)

The selection has prompted conversations about award criteria and recognition in African women’s football, even as Okoronkwo emphasized that her focus remains firmly on her on-field contributions.