Okoronkwo Confident as Super Falcons Gear Up for WAFCON Semi-final Showdown with South Africa

As anticipation builds for the Super Falcons’ semi-final clash against arch-rivals South Africa at the ongoing Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, Nigerian forward Esther Okoronkwo has expressed strong confidence in her team’s ability to come out on top.

The AFC Toronto striker, currently enjoying an impressive run of form, has played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s campaign so far netting once and setting up four goals, the highest assist tally by any player in the tournament.

Speaking during a pre-match press conference, the 28-year-old emphasized the Falcons’ unified approach and determination, regardless of the opposition.

“We approach every match with the same mindset and hunger to win,” Okoronkwo said. “Our focus is on what we need to do as a team, not on what our opponents have done. We’re here to compete, and most importantly, to win.”

She added, “Whenever I’m on the pitch, my aim is to contribute to the team either by scoring or assisting. Winning this tournament and bringing the trophy back home to Nigeria is our biggest motivation.”

The semi-final encounter sets the stage for a much-anticipated rematch following Nigeria’s 2-1 group-stage loss to South Africa at the 2022 edition, also held in Morocco. That victory helped Desiree Ellis’ side go on to claim their first-ever continental crown, an achievement the Falcons are now aiming to avenge.

Under coach Justine Madugu, Nigeria advanced to the last four after topping Group B with seven points. They kicked off with a commanding 3-0 win over Tunisia, followed by a narrow 1-0 triumph against Botswana and a goalless draw with Algeria. The quarter-finals saw the Falcons produce their most dominant performance yet, thrashing Zambia 5-0 to reach a record-extending 13th consecutive WAFCON semi-final.

Having missed out on the podium in 2022, the nine-time African champions are determined to avoid a repeat and reaffirm their continental dominance. A win against South Africa would not only avenge past defeats but also guarantee a place in the tournament’s top three.