Esther Okoronkwo Hat-Trick Sends AFC Toronto to NSL Final

Super Falcons forward shines as her goals propel Toronto past Montreal Roses 6-1 on aggregate

Super Falcons forward Esther Okoronkwo starred in AFC Toronto’s historic run to the Northern Super League (NSL) final, scoring a sensational first-half hat-trick in the second-leg semifinal against Montreal Roses.

Okoronkwo’s treble helped Toronto secure a 4-1 win in Monday’s match at York Lions Stadium, completing a 6-1 aggregate victory after a 2-0 first-leg advantage in Montreal on November 1. Nikayla Small and Kaylee Hunter had scored in that first leg for the regular-season winners, giving Toronto a solid foundation heading into the return match.

The Nigerian international opened the scoring in the seventh minute, finishing a well-timed pass from Hunter. She doubled the lead from a free kick 13 minutes later, and completed her hat-trick before the 30th minute, weaving past four defenders to beat the goalkeeper in a snow-covered semifinal. Her display electrified the home crowd and set the tone for Toronto’s dominance throughout the match.

The forward’s heroics mark another milestone in an impressive year. Okoronkwo had earlier helped Nigeria lift the WAFCON trophy, demonstrating her ability to perform on both domestic and international stages. Her consistent form has made her one of the most feared forwards in women’s football, and her performance against Montreal showcased her pace, composure, and clinical finishing.

Toronto’s coach praised Okoronkwo after the game, saying, “Esther has been phenomenal all season. Today, she reminded everyone why she is a Super Falcon. Her vision, movement, and finishing were just top class.”

See also: Super Falcons Stars Ajibade, Okoronkwo Nominated For CAF Player Of The Year Award

The team will now advance to the NSL final, where they are expected to be strong contenders for the inaugural title. Analysts say Okoronkwo’s form will be key if Toronto hopes to lift the trophy. The NSL has gained attention for providing a platform for women’s football talents, and Okoronkwo’s performance highlights the growing depth and competitiveness of the league.

Fans took to social media to celebrate the Nigerian striker’s heroics, with many hailing her as a national treasure. “Esther Okoronkwo is pure class! A hat-trick in the semifinal, this is why we love our Super Falcons,” one fan tweeted.

With the final approaching, all eyes will be on Okoronkwo and AFC Toronto as they chase the historic first NSL championship, and her recent performance has already made her a frontrunner for the season’s top player awards.