Nigerian international Gift Monday made an immediate impact on her first start for Washington Spirit, scoring the decisive goal in a 1–0 victory over Orlando Pride in the National Women’s Soccer League.
The 23 year old striker netted in the 63rd minute, capitalising on a costly error from Orlando goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse. Monday pressed aggressively as Moorhouse attempted to control a back pass, stole the ball just a yard from goal, and calmly slotted into an empty net.
She was later substituted in the 81st minute, replaced by teenager Chloe Ricketts. The defeat marked Orlando Pride’s first home loss since August 25, 2023, snapping a 22-match unbeaten streak at home.
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With this result, Washington Spirit remain unbeaten this season, boasting four wins and a draw from their first five matches. Their next outing sees them face Gotham FC at Audi Field in a high-stakes East Coast clash on Saturday.
Editorial
Gift Monday’s NWSL story has only just begun but what a statement she’s made. To score the winner in your full debut against one of the toughest home sides in the league is no small feat. It’s a moment that reflects not just talent, but hunger, intuition, and fearless pressing.
Her goal wasn’t a thunderbolt or a header from a corner it was a striker’s dream: capitalising on a mistake, reacting faster than anyone else, and making it count. It’s the kind of moment that separates good forwards from great ones. In one flash of awareness and calm finishing, Monday announced herself to the American audience.
What this also tells us is that Nigerian players continue to thrive when given the stage. The NWSL is one of the most competitive women’s leagues in the world, and for a 23 year old to step into that environment and deliver instantly says a lot about her mentality. It also underlines the strength of Nigeria’s player development pipeline, which consistently produces athletes capable of competing at elite levels globally.
Washington Spirit fans have reason to be excited. Nigeria has reason to be proud. If Monday continues on this path, she could soon become a mainstay not just in Washington’s attack but as one of the league’s rising stars.
Did You Know?
- The NWSL was founded in 2012 and is the longest-running professional women’s football league in the United States.
- Gift Monday previously played for FC Robo and Bayelsa Queens in the Nigerian Women’s Football League before moving abroad.
- Washington Spirit won their first NWSL title in 2021 after defeating Chicago Red Stars in the final.
- Chloe Ricketts, who replaced Monday, is one of the youngest professional players in NWSL history.
- Orlando Pride’s 22-game home unbeaten streak was the longest active run in the league before this match.
