In-form Nigeria International and Washington Spirit striker, Gift Monday has broken her silence following her unexpected omission from the Super Falcons’ 24-player list for WAFCON 2025.
The 22-year-old forward, widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most dangerous attacking options, released a dignified yet emotional statement on Monday via Instagram, just days after head coach Justin Madugu revealed the official squad heading to Morocco in July.
“Yes, My Name Isn’t on It… It Hurts” – Gift Monday
“I have seen the official squad list for the upcoming WAFCON tournament and yes, my name isn’t on it,” Monday wrote.
“While it hurts and is a tough pill to swallow, I want to make it clear that I hold no grudges, no resentment.”
Despite being in scintillating form in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), scoring four goals in nine matches since her move from Tenerife, Spain, Monday was surprisingly overlooked by the technical crew.
Instead, one of the final forward spots went to Chioma Okafor, a 21-year-old college player from the University of Connecticut who has never played professionally or represented Nigeria at any level.
A Season to Remember for Gift Monday
Gift Monday’s numbers in 2025 speak volumes:
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4 goals in 9 games for Washington Spirit
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10 goals earlier this season for Tenerife in Spain
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Consistently one of Nigeria’s most exciting forwards across two continents
Still, her name was missing when Madugu named his squad, sparking outrage from those who were quick to question the logic behind the decision.
“I Am Fully Fit. I Am Not Injured.”
Rumours quickly surfaced that Monday had been left out due to fitness issues; a claim the striker swiftly dismissed.
“I am hale and hearty, fully fit, and still deeply in love with the game and the green white green,” Gift Monday clarified.
“Though I won’t be on the pitch with the team in Morocco, my heart will be there every step of the way.”
“I remain fully committed to cheering my country from home, lifting every prayer and every shout of support for the badge we all fight so hard to represent.
Rather than lashing out, Monday’s statement was filled with grace, dignity, and unity, earning her even more admiration.
“To the incredible women who made the squad, go out there and make history. Let your passion roar. Let your pride show. You carry the hopes of millions—including mine.”
“Sometimes the hardest moments reveal the strength of our hearts. I’ll be watching. I’ll be believing. I’ll be back. Come on Super Falcons. Let’s fly high.
WAFCON 2025: Nigeria’s Group Stage Fixtures
Although Monday will be cheering from afar, she will no doubt be glued to the screen as Nigeria begins their WAFCON 2025 campaign:
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July 7: Nigeria vs Tunisia
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July 11: Nigeria vs Botswana
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July 15: Nigeria vs Algeria
What Next for Gift Monday?
While her WAFCON dream has been cut short, Monday remains focused on her club duties in the NWSL, where she is emerging as one of the league’s breakout stars.
Sources close to the player say she’s using this moment as fuel to come back even stronger and possibly seal a move to a top European club next season.
