‎By Teddy Nwanunobi

‎Ahead of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, Super Falcons midfielder, Esther Okoronkwo, has returned to hand Nigeria a timely boost for the tournament, which is scheduled to start from July 25 to August 16.

‎Okoronkwo, who had been sidelined for nearly two months after suffering a meniscus tear during AFC Toronto’s league clash against Halifax earlier this season, returned to action for AFC Toronto on Sunday, featuring for 25 minutes in their 3-1 win over Vancouver Rise.

‎AFC Toronto managed just one win, alongside two defeats and two draws, in five league matches during her absence.

‎The 29-year-old also missed the Super Falcons’ two international friendlies against Senegal, which Nigeria won 5-1 on aggregate.

‎With her return, head coach, Justine Madugu, who has experimented with other options in her position, now faces a decision on whether the Canada-based midfielder will make the final squad for the tournament.

‎Okoronkwo was one of Nigeria’s standout performers at the last WAFCON in Morocco, scoring two goals and providing seven assists as the Super Falcons claimed a record-extending 10th continental title.

‎For this year’s tournament, Nigeria have been drawn in Group C alongside Malawi, Zambia and Egypt. Madugu’s side will open their campaign against debutants Malawi in Rabat on Tuesday, July 28.

‎The 2026 WAFCON will also serve as qualifiers for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. The four semi-finalists will qualify automatically, while another team from the tournament will compete in the intercontinental playoffs.