Super Falcons forward Esther Okoronkwo has shared her thoughts after playing a crucial role in Nigeria’s 3-0 victory over Tunisia in their opening match at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) on Sunday.
Okoronkwo, who also won the Woman of the Match award, made a significant impact despite starting the game on the bench.
The forward was introduced as part of a triple change at the start of the second half and made her presence felt by providing the assist for Nigeria’s third goal, scored by fellow substitute Chinwendu Ihezuo.
Ihezuo’s goal secured a convincing win for the Super Falcons, marking their first opening game victory at the WAFCON since 2016. The result also put Nigeria at the top of their group ahead of their next fixture against Botswana.
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Speaking after the game, Okoronkwo reflected on the team’s performance: “You know, it’s like the first game ever. So, you know, we’re just trying to like get the energy together, work together, and create as much as chances and opportunities that we can.”
“Obviously the goals are going to come, and they did come. But we just have to take the positive and, you know, go for the next game and then eventually get more goals.”
Okoronkwo also revealed the instructions she received from Falcons head coach Justin Madugu before stepping onto the pitch: “So before I went in, he told me that, you know, be prepared and help the team out there. They need me. And get the ball, try to lay off and find other teammates and, you know, play off, play together as a team, work together.”
Okoronkwo’s impactful display will no doubt boost her confidence as Nigeria prepare to face Botswana in their next group match, with the Super Falcons aiming to build on their strong start.
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