Nigerian forward Gift Monday lit up Audi Field on Sunday night, firing a record-breaking first-half hat-trick to lead Washington Spirit to a commanding 4–0 win over Houston Dash in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL).
The 23-year-old striker struck three times in just 18 first-half minutes, powering the Spirit past a Houston side featuring compatriot Michelle Alozie.
Gift Monday’s historic hat-trick fires up Audi Field
Monday set the tone early, breaking the deadlock in the 18th minute before doubling the lead just three minutes later. She completed her hat-trick in the 36th minute, sending the home fans into raptures.
Her treble was not just decisive; it was historic — the fastest hat-trick in NWSL history and the first ever by a Washington Spirit player at Audi Field.
The three goals lifted Monday’s season tally to eight goals and two assists in 20 appearances as she put in her best to influence the Spirit’s attack.
End of goal drought and boost for title push
The night also marked a personal breakthrough for Monday, who had gone nine matches without a goal since last scoring on August 3 in a 2–1 victory over Portland Thorns.
Her explosive return to form came at a crucial stage of the season, strengthening the Spirit’s push near the top of the table.
Despite her brilliance, Monday was replaced at half-time by Sofia Cantore, while fellow Nigerian Deborah Abiodun came on for Hal Hershfelt.
Cantore later wrapped up the scoring in the 82nd minute, sealing a dominant 4–0 victory.
The win extended Washington Spirit’s unbeaten run in all competitions to 12 matches, moving them up to second place in the NWSL standings with 40 points, though they remain 16 points behind league leaders Kansas City Current.
Next up for Monday and her teammates is a high-stakes Concacaf Women’s Champions Cup clash against NJ/NY Gotham FC on Thursday, where they will look to carry forward their momentum.
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