Women footballer of the year: Nkwocha still leading the pack

Nigerian international Perpetual Nkwocha’s record as highest winner of African Women footballer of the year remained intact even as Thembi Kgatlana, emerged the second South African Woman to clinch the title on Tuesday in Dakar Senegal after compatriot Noko Matlou won it in 2008.

Three time winner Assisat Oshoala who had hoped to clinch the title for the fourth time thus equaling Nkwocha’s record, failed to realise the dream alongside teammate and fellow contender Francisca Ordega.

Nkwocha won the title back to back in 2004 and 2005 and again back to back in 2010 and 2011. The Prolific striker who celebrated her 43rd birthday recently was among past winners who graced the occasion in style on Tuesday.

Nkwocha made 99 appearances for the national team scoring 80 goals in the bargain.  Known for her speed and precision Nkwocha who had wanted to be a reverend sister and a lawyer had to bow to her overwhelming passion to be a footballer and made mincemeat of it.

With super falcons successful qualification for the world cup in France the likes of Oshoala, Francisca Ordega and Rasheedat Ajibade to mention just a few who had impressive run at the last African Women Nations cup in Ghana will be hoping to have a good outing to improve their chances of winning the prestigious award.

Ajibade it will be recalled joined Norwegian side Avaldsnes IL on a two-year deal immediately after the Nations cup.

The 19-year-old, who has represented her country at all levels, sealed the move from Nigeria Women Premier League club FC Robo Queens.

Avaldsnes manager Lena Tyriberget who expressed happiness that his club grabbed the Nigerian when they did said her coming will improve the fortune of the club describing her as a player of the future, an indication that she stands good chance of clinching lots of awards in the future.