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The Northern Super League (NSL) semifinal match at York Lions Stadium delivered an electrifying performance, largely thanks to the outstanding skills of Esther Okoronkwo. The 28-year-old forward played a crucial role in leading AFC Toronto to a decisive victory over the Montreal Roses, earning a spot in the NSL Championship.
Her remarkable display included three goals scored within the first half hour of play.
Anticipation built for this exciting matchup after Toronto secured a 2-0 victory in the first leg of the semifinal series in Montreal. However, the second leg faced postponement due to severe weather conditions, adding to the suspense surrounding the game.
This delay proved advantageous for Okoronkwo, who was in exceptional form and prepared to seize every opportunity that arose.
Dominance in the semifinal
When the match began, Okoronkwo quickly established her dominance on the field. She scored her first goal just six minutes in, thanks to a smart assist from teammate Kaylee Hunter.
This early success set a challenging pace for the Montreal Roses, who struggled to respond. A mere 14 minutes later, Okoronkwo showcased her skill with a stunning left-footed free kick, rendering the opposing goalkeeper powerless.
By the 26th minute, Okoronkwo completed her hat trick.
Her third goal came from a defensive error, as she struck a low shot that effectively decided the contest. With the score at 3-0 in favor of Toronto, it was evident that the Roses were facing a significant challenge.
Game highlights and player performances
Okoronkwo’s standout performance was complemented by her teammates, who showcased remarkable teamwork and strategy throughout the match. In the 84th minute, Lauren Rowe added the fourth goal, emphasizing the home team’s control. Although Tanya Boychuk scored a consolation goal for the Roses in the 74th minute, it came too late to impact the outcome.
During the regular season, Okoronkwo distinguished herself by contributing eight goals and eight assists over 1,486 minutes of play. Her semifinal performance further highlighted her as a pivotal player for Toronto, with her hat trick enhancing her impressive record.
Looking ahead to the NSL final
AFC Toronto has advanced to the NSL final with a commanding aggregate score of 6-1. They will face the Vancouver Rise, who secured their place after a tense penalty shootout against Ottawa. The final is scheduled to occur at BMO Field on Saturday, where Toronto aims to capture its first championship title.
The excitement surrounding the final is evident, particularly given the impressive performances from both teams in their semifinals. This match is set to be a significant showdown, highlighting the top talent in the NSL.
Esther Okoronkwo’s hat trick was pivotal in clinching the semifinal for AFC Toronto, setting the stage for an exhilarating championship match. As the team gears up for the final, fans anticipate another impressive display of skill and determination from their star player.
