Nigerian striker Gift Monday scores fastest NWSL hat trick, helping Spirit clinch playoff spot

Washington Spirit forward Gift Monday scored the fastest hat trick from the start of a match in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) on Sunday, commemorating each goal with one of her signature jovial celebrations

“I can never run out of celebrations,” the 23-year-old striker said following the Spirit’s win. “I have a constant one, but I love to dance, so there’s always a new step.

The Nigerian international’s first hat trick with the club helped the No. 2-ranked Spirit defeat the No. 10 Houston Dash 4-0 and clinch a spot in the postseason.

Two Washington Spirit Players Called Up to Nigeria Women’s National Team.

Deborah Abiodun, Gift Monday and Super Falcons to take on Cameroon in pre-WAFCON friendlies

Washington, D.C. (02/19/2026) – Washington Spirit midfielder Deborah Abiodun and forward Gift Monday have been called up to the Nigeria Women’s National Team for the federation’s upcoming friendlies against Cameroon, the Nigeria Football Federation announced today. The side will visit Yaoundé, the Cameroonian capital city, for both friendlies.

Abiodun made her debut for the Nigeria senior team in September 2022 and has since competed with the side at...

Nigerian striker Gift Monday scores fastest NWSL hat trick, helping Spirit clinch playoff spot

Washington Spirit forward Gift Monday has been recalled to Nigeria's Super Falcons squad for a pair of friendlies against Cameroon, ending her controversial absence from the roster

Head coach Justin Madugu named Monday in a 25-player squad Wednesday for the two-match series against Cameroon's Indomitable Lionesses in Yaoundé, scheduled for February 28 and March 3

Both games will serve as preparation for the 13th Women's Africa Cup of Nations, to be held in Morocco from March 17 to April 3, where the four semi-finalists