When Washington Spirit played Houston Dash, few would have envisioned the display that Nigerian forward Gift Monday was to stage. In what will be one of the most memorable performances in the 2025 NWSL season, Super Falcons star Gift Monday bagged three goals in just 36 minutes — claiming a new hat-trick-from-kickoff league mark along the way. Her clinical finish, clever positioning, and incessant movement not only guaranteed an emphatic 4–0 victory for the Spirit but earned her the title of NWSL Player of the Week.
A Night of Pure Brilliance
From the opening whistle, Monday’s mission was clear. She netted her first goal in the opening minutes after a defensive mistake, slotting past the Houston keeper with a low drive. Barely had the home fans settled before she had scored again — this time clinically following a rapid counterattack initiated by Trinity Rodman. Her third, the most stunning of the group, resulted from a dazzling solo run in which she sliced through defenders before unleashing a curling shot that settled in the top corner. At halftime, Monday had re-written the news headlines, engraving her name in NWSL history.
Driving Washington Spirit’s Playoff Push
Apart from her targets, Monday’s overall play was most important to the Spirit’s dominant performance. She distributed 86% of her passes successfully, won six duels successfully, and consistently stretched the Dash backline with probing runs that created opportunities for her teammates. Her performance not only took the Spirit to a thorough victory but also clinched their playoff spot, a turning point in their season.
Her coach, Adrián González, complimented her after the match as “a complete forward who has hunger, precision, and discipline.” Monday’s energy seemed to motivate the entire team, taking a make-or-break game and turning it into a statement of victory.
From Lagos to the Limelight
For Gift Monday, the journey to NWSL stardom has been of determination. From her childhood playing for Robo Queens Lagos to her outstanding performances at the WAFCON and being included in the Super Falcons team, her rise is a reflection of the new generation of Nigerian women breaking football standards abroad. This performance, which recently saw her win her individual glory, marks Nigeria’s growing strength in women’s football globally.
As Washington Spirit make their way into the playoffs, all eyes on Monday will be on her — the brilliant Nigerian forward whose speed, composure, and fearless style have made her one of the league’s players to watch.
