Super Falcons forward, Monday Gift, has revealed she is working towards a Super Falcons return after missing out on Nigeria’s 2024 African Women’s Cup of Nations (WAFCON) triumph in Morocco.
The 23-year-old striker stole the headlines last Sunday after netting the fastest hat-trick from kick-off in NWSL history, inspiring Washington Spirit to a 4-0 victory over Houston Dash at Audi Field.
“Playing for the Super Falcons is a very big honour for me, and I am more than happy to wear the jersey,” she said.
“I’m just doing what I can to get my act together and hope I get called up. I’m preparing for what is ahead of me.”
Her resurgence comes at a crucial time as Nigeria begins preparations for upcoming international fixtures.
Monday Gift Scores Historic Hat-Trick for Washington Spirit
Monday etched her name into the record books with a stunning first-half performance, scoring in the 18th, 21st, and 36th minutes to secure Spirit’s playoff berth.
She opened the scoring with a composed finish past Abby Smith, doubled the tally by reacting quickest to her own rebound, and completed the treble with a one-touch strike from Trinity Rodman’s assist.
Each goal was marked by her trademark bow-and-arrow celebration, which carries deep personal significance.
“Growing up, I didn’t have people who really believed in my potential,” Monday explained.
“Each time I score, I shoot the arrow because I see myself more than how people see me — right there up in the sky among the stars.”
Her hat-trick, assisted by Rodman (two assists) and Croix Bethune (one assist), made her only the second player in Spirit’s history after Crystal Dunn in 2015 to score a first-half treble.
Read also: Monday Gift Makes NWSL History with Record Hat-Trick as Spirit Clinch Playoff Spot
Read also: Washington Spirit Signs and Unveils Nigerian Forward Monday Gift
Award Recognition and Stats Surge for Monday Gift
Following her sensational display, Monday was named NWSL Player of the Week for Round 22 after collecting 50.3% of the 881 votes on the league’s official X (formerly Twitter) account.
She beat Gotham FC’s Rose Lavelle (35%), Utah Royals goalkeeper Mia Justus (8.1%), and Kansas City Current striker Bia Zaneratto (6.7%).
The win also handed Washington Spirit’s its biggest-ever victory margin and extended their unbeaten streak to 10 games, setting a new club record.
Signed earlier this year from UD Granadilla Tenerife (Spain), Monday has now scored eight goals in 19 appearances, keeping her in contention for the Golden Boot alongside Orlando’s Barbra Banda and Chicago’s Ludmila.
“It’s been a minute since I have scored a hat-trick. Today it came so fast and I think it is just based on hard work and team spirit,” Monday shared.
“I want to say a very big thank you to my coach for trusting me and giving me the opportunity to start this game because I think that hat-trick has been waiting for me for a very long time.”
What’s Next
Washington Spirit will up next, play a key league fixture with San Diego Wave at the weekend after playing out a 0-0 draw against Gotham FC in the CONCACAF Women Champions League today.
