Canadian women’s side AFC Toronto has confirmed contract extensions for Nigerian Super Falcons forward Esther Okoronkwo and three other players as the club continues to build toward future success in the Northern Super League.
Okoronkwo has committed her future to the Toronto based club until 2027 after playing a key role in their impressive inaugural season. The Nigerian forward enjoyed a standout year both at club and international level, helping the Super Falcons lift the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title in July 2025. She was named player of the match in the final after scoring once and providing two assists in Nigeria’s dramatic 3-2 comeback win over Morocco.
At club level, Esther Okoronkwo formed a potent attacking partnership with teenage Canadian forward Kaylee Hunter as AFC Toronto finished the regular season as the league’s highest scoring side with 42 goals. The 28 year old registered eight goals and 11 assists in 1,643 minutes of action as Toronto topped the Northern Super League standings with a 16-6-3 record before falling 2-1 to Vancouver in the championship game.
Alongside Esther Okoronkwo, the club also extended the contracts of Canadian midfielder Zoe Burns and forwards Kaila Novak and Lauren Rowe. Novak is now tied to the club through 2026, while Burns and Rowe have both signed extensions running until 2027.
Confirming the decision in a club statement, AFC Toronto said, “Toronto, ON (January 15, 2025) – AFC Toronto today announced a series of key roster decisions ahead of the 2026 Northern Super League season. #9 – Esther Okoronkwo | Forward, Nigeria – Contract Extension through 2027.” Sporting Director Billy Wilson added, “We’re delighted that Esther, Lauren, Zoe, and Kaila have all committed to extending their time with AFC Toronto,” said Billy Wilson, AFC Toronto Sporting Director. “Their commitment reinforces our belief in this group and our ambition as we continue to build toward the future,” he concluded.
With these renewals, AFC Toronto now has 20 players under contract as preparations begin for the next Northern Super League campaign. The club remains one of the flagship teams in Canada’s top tier women’s competition, continuing to strengthen its squad after a strong debut season.
