Super Falcons striker Chinwendu “Chinwe” Okoronkwo on Tuesday brushed aside her omission from the 2025 CAF Women’s Player of the Year shortlist, insisting her focus remains on helping Nigeria reclaim the Africa Women’s Cup of Nations title next year rather than individual accolades.
The 25-year-old Madrid CFF forward, who netted 14 goals in the Spanish Liga F last season and powered Nigeria to the Olympic qualifiers, was widely tipped for recognition but failed to make the final 10 announced Monday.
Speaking to journalists after a Falcons training session, Okoronkwo said: “Honestly, it doesn’t bother me. Awards are nice, but they don’t win trophies for your country. My dream is to lift the AWCON again with this team — that’s the only prize I’m chasing right now.”
She added with a smile: “If CAF didn’t see what I did last season, maybe I just have to score 30 goals this year so they can’t ignore me.”
Falcons coach Randy Waldrum backed his star, stating: “Chinwe is world-class. Numbers don’t lie — 14 goals and eight assists in a top-five European league. The list is subjective, but her impact is not. She’ll show it at the next tournament.”
Okoronkwo’s club teammate and South Africa captain Refiloe Jane, who did make the shortlist, sent public support, posting on X: “My strike partner deserved to be there. Numbers and influence speak louder than any list.”
Nigeria, 11-time continental champions, begin their 2026 AWCON qualifying campaign in February, with Okoronkwo expected to lead the line alongside Barcelona’s Asisat Oshoala.
