CAF Awards: Esther Okoronkwo Voices Fury After Missing Final Women’s Player of the Year Shortlist

Esther Okoronkwo has expressed deep frustration after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) snubbed her from the final shortlist for the 2025 Women’s Player of the Year award.

The Canada-based Super Falcons forward was initially included in CAF’s 10-player shortlist, giving hope that she might break into the top three. However, the 28-year-old did not make the final cut when the confederation released its last round of nominees.

Okoronkwo had a standout campaign at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, registering one goal and six assists.

Taking to social media, she didn’t hold back her frustration.

“I remain grateful for the support across Africa. CAF’s decision is noted, but my focus stays on the pitch where recognition is earned, not awarded.

Awards don’t always reflect reality, but the pitch never lies,” she wrote on Instagram.

The final three contenders for the award are Nigeria’s Rasheedat Ajibade and Morocco’s Ghizlane Chebbak and Sanaa Mssoudy.