New Washington Spirit forward, Gift Monday, is confident that her move to the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) will positively impact her national team career with the Super Falcons. Monday joined the Spirit from Spanish women’s top-flight side Tenerife on a three-year deal in March, ending her three-year stint in Spain. The 23-year-old has hit the ground running for her new club, scoring two goals in four games, a continuation of her impressive form with Tenerife, where she scored 10 league goals and provided three assists in 19 matches.
Despite establishing herself as one of the best players in Spain, Monday believes that her move to the NWSL will provide her with a new challenge that will improve her game for the Super Falcons. “This move will definitely impact my game with the Super Falcons. Playing in such a competitive environment helps you grow mentally and physically,” she said in an interview with Sports Boom.
Monday has set new targets for herself in the NWSL, focusing on improving her positioning and finishing. “My positioning and finishing. I improved a bit in Spain, but I know I can do better. I’m still growing, and I need to perfect those parts of my game,” she said. Her personal goal for the season is to understand the league, her teammates, and the game, and to make them understand her kind of football. “It’s all about building that understanding,” she added.
The Nigerian striker wants to help the Spirit reach their target, and she believes that her talent and quality will be instrumental in the team’s success. “I want to bring my talent and use my quality to help the team, especially in attack,” she said. “I came thinking the NWSL was a very physical game, so I brought that physicality with me. But for now, I haven’t fully seen that side—maybe I’m still new and need time to experience more.”
Monday has also praised her teammates and coaching staff for their support. “My teammates and coaching staff have been incredible. On the pitch, they’re always available—whether it’s extra training or treatment,” she said. “Off the pitch, too, I have teammates nearby who I can call if I need anything. It’s been a big help.”
The Spirit are currently sixth in the 14-team league with 12 points, having won four of their seven matches so far. Monday’s next game is a trip to the Chicago Stars on Saturday, and she will be looking to continue her impressive form and help her team secure a win.
Monday’s move to the NWSL is a significant step in her career, and she is confident that it will have a positive impact on her game with the Super Falcons. With her talent, determination, and hard work, she is poised to make a lasting impression in the league and help her team achieve success.