History was made in Canadian women’s football as AFC Toronto, led by in-form Nigerian forward, Esther Okoronkwo, clinched the 2025 NSL Supporters’ Shield, becoming the first-ever regular season champions of the Northern Super League (NSL).
The achievement is also Toronto’s first professional title in their inaugural season, an historic moment that sets a new standard in Canadian women’s soccer.
Esther Okoronkwo: A Driving Force Behind Toronto’s Success
Esther Okoronkwo has been at the heart of Toronto’s historic campaign, delivering consistently key performances across competitions.
Season totals (all competitions):
NSL league performance only:
Her productivity and influence have made her one of the most dangerous attackers in the NSL, playing a key role in AFC Toronto’s dominant season.
Read also: Esther Okoronkwo on Fire! Extends Red-Hot Form in Canada
Read also: Esther Okoronkwo Fires Toronto into Playoffs with Brace in 7–0 Rout
Historic Moment for AFC Toronto
Toronto sealed the Supporters’ Shield with an unmatched record that guarantees they will finish top of the NSL table regardless of the remaining results.
The trophy will be officially presented on Sunday, October 19 at York Lions Stadium, after their final regular season home match against Montreal Roses FC.
“Clinching the Supporters’ Shield in our first-ever season is an extraordinary milestone for this club and for women’s soccer in Toronto,”
— Helena Ruken, AFC Toronto CEO
She added:
“From the very beginning, our fans, players, and staff have built an incredible community and this success is the result of our shared vision, commitment, and hard work.”
“This is only the beginning, we can’t wait to carry this momentum in the playoffs and into the next season.”
Sporting Director Billy Wilson also lauded the team’s remarkable achievement, emphasizing their youth and ambition.
“I’m incredibly proud of what we are building here in Toronto. We have an amazing group of people who push each other each day to be the best version of ourselves,” Wilson said.
“As the youngest team in the Northern Super League, winning the league with two games still to play is a remarkable milestone.”
Toronto’s Dominance in Numbers
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14 wins – 6 draws – 3 losses
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Held first place for 12 straight weeks
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First team ever to win the NSL Supporters’ Shield
Playoff Fixtures Awaits AFC Toronto
With playoff spots almost finalized, postseason action begins in early November with two-leg semifinals (home and away).
The aggregate winners will advance to the inaugural NSL Final, presented by Toyota, scheduled for Saturday, November 15 at BMO Field, Toronto.
Before then, AFC Toronto will close out their regular season with two matches, including a Fan Appreciation Match against Montreal Roses FC on October 19 at 12 p.m. ET.
