Nigerian forward, Gift Monday officially began a new chapter in her professional journey on
Saturday, making her debut for the Washington Spirit in the National Women’s Soccer League
(NWSL).
The 23-year-old forward came off the bench to replace Gabrielle Carle in a 2-0 away victory over Racing Louisville FC.
Although she didn’t find the net, Monday contributed to the Spirit’s attacking efforts and helped her team close out the match with all three points. The goals came in the second half after her introduction, scored by Leicy Santos and Ashley Hatch.
The club celebrated her debut with a post on their official X (formerly Twitter) account, saying, “Welcome to the @NWSL, Monday,” as she stepped onto the pitch for the first time.
Monday joined Washington Spirit in March from Spanish side UD Tenerife, where she netted 22 goals in 72 appearances over three seasons.
She signed a three-year contract with the Spirit, with an option to extend through 2028.
Head coach Jonathan Giráldez expressed his satisfaction with the Nigerian forward’s arrival, saying, “Gift brings a unique skill set to our front line and will enhance our attacking options.”
On the international stage, Monday has earned 12 caps for Nigeria’s Super Falcons, representing her country at both the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and the 2022 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, though she has yet to open her goal account.
