National Teams
“We go with the same mentality”: Okoronkwo on Nigeria’s WAFCON semifinal vs South Africa
By Wale Mustapha
Nigeria forward Esther Okoronkwo has issued a rallying call ahead of Nigeria’s high-stakes Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) semi-final clash against defending champions South Africa.
Okoronkwo has been instrumental in Nigeria’s impressive run in Morocco, contributing one goal and a tournament-leading four assists.
Her dynamic playmaking has helped propel the Super Falcons into the last four, and she believes the team is fully prepared for the challenge that lies ahead.
Speaking during Monday’s pre-match press conference, the 27-year-old emphasized the team’s collective mindset and motivation.
“When I am on the field, I just want to help the team the best way I can, whether it’s by scoring or assisting,” she said.
“The fact that we want to win the tournament is a great motivation to bring the trophy back to Nigeria.”
Despite the weight of the occasion, Okoronkwo insisted the team is treating the semi-final with the same approach that has brought them success so far.
“We go into every game with the same mentality — to want to win, regardless of what is in front of us,” she added. “We’re not really looking at the other team’s stats. We just focus on us and what we’re going to do tomorrow.”
Nigeria, the most successful team in WAFCON history with nine titles, are seeking redemption after their dramatic penalty shootout loss to South Africa in the 2022 edition.
With Okoronkwo in fine form and the squad firing on all cylinders, the Super Falcons are determined to reclaim continental supremacy.
Victory on Tuesday would send Nigeria to the final and keep alive their quest for a record-extending 10th WAFCON crown.
