Washington Spirit striker Gift Monday says she is determined to earn a recall to the Super Falcons after missing out on Nigeria’s victorious campaign at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.
Monday, who was surprisingly omitted from coach Justine Madugu’s squad despite her strong club form, has maintained her momentum in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), scoring eight goals and two assists in 19 games this season.
The 23-year-old underlined her credentials on Sunday with a record-breaking performance, netting the fastest hat-trick from kickoff in NWSL history as Washington Spirit thrashed Houston Dash 4-0 to seal a second consecutive playoff berth.
“Playing for the Super Falcons is a very big honour for me, and I am more than happy to wear the jersey,” Monday told reporters after the game. “I am just doing what I can to get my act together and hope I get called up. I’m preparing for what is ahead of me.”
Her display was also historic for Audi Field, where she became the first player to score a hat-trick at the venue. The forward struck in the 18th, 21st, and 36th minutes, with assists from Trinity Rodman and Croix Bethune.
Monday last featured for Nigeria in October 2024, scoring in a 4-1 win over Algeria in Lagos during a two-legged friendly. She now hopes her form will earn her a place in the squad for next month’s 2026 WAFCON qualifiers against Benin Republic.
The former Tenerife forward said her focus remains on consistent performances at club level, trusting that national team opportunities will follow.
