Super Falcons forward Gift Monday picked up right where she left off in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) playoff, delivering another crucial goal to guide Washington Spirit to a well-deserved 2–0 win.

Monday struck early at Audi Field, once again proving her reliability on the big stage as Spirit edged Portland Thorns in Saturday’s semifinal, Footballrover reports.

Gift Monday shines in NWSL semifinal showdown

The Nigerian forward—who powered Spirit into the last four with a match-winning header against Racing Louisville—wasted no time influencing the contest.

In the 27th minute, Gift Monday timed her run perfectly to meet a clever pass from Rosemonde Kouassi, calmly steering the ball into an empty net after Kouassi initiated a rapid counter from deep in her own half.

It was a composed, confident finish from a player who has rediscovered her sharpness at the perfect time.

The goal showed the productive link between Monday and Kouassi, coming just days after their combination delivered the key moment in the quarterfinals.

Despite recording just 31 touches—the fewest of any outfield player to feature the full 90—she still managed to bag her second straight goal for the Spirit.

Her tap-in against Portland followed the 73rd-minute header that lifted Spirit past Racing Louisville—a goal that snapped a brief drought and reminded everyone of her ability to decide high-pressure matches.

That previous performance ended with Spirit surviving a dramatic finish and advancing after a tense penalty shootout, extending their unbeaten run against Louisville.

Monday: A gift to Spirit in their playoff charge

Against Portland, Monday carried that momentum straight into the semifinal, showcasing her sharp movement, composure, and clinical finishing.

The 23-year-old now has 13 goal contributions this season: ten goals and two assists in the NWSL, plus one goal in the CONCACAF Women’s Champions Cup.

While Monday stole the spotlight, her compatriot Deborah Abiodun entered as a second-half substitute for Leicy Santos in the 72nd minute.

Seven minutes before full time, Croix Bethune sealed the victory with a late strike, confirming a controlled and commanding Spirit performance.

Washington Spirit have now booked their place in the NWSL final at the Paypal Park in San Jose — a reward fully earned.

Like this post?
We’d be delighted to hear from you. Please leave a comment in the box below!

Last Updated on November 15, 2025 9:33 pm by footballrover