Nigerian international Gift Monday delivered a sensational performance on Saturday night, scoring a first-half hat-trick to propel Washington Spirit to a dominant 4-0 victory over Houston Dash in a National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) clash.

 

The Super Falcons forward wasted no time asserting herself, opening the scoring in the 18th minute with a calm and clinical finish. Just three minutes later, she struck again, capitalizing on a defensive lapse to double her tally and leave the Houston defense reeling.

 

Monday completed her hat-trick in the 37th minute, writing her name into the NWSL record books as the scorer of the earliest hat-trick from kickoff in league history — a testament to her ruthlessness in front of goal and growing reputation in American soccer.

 

With the result virtually secured before halftime, Spirit head coach Mark Parsons substituted Monday early in the second half, handing minutes to Italian forward Sofia Cantore and preserving the Nigerian star’s energy for upcoming fixtures.

 

Houston Dash introduced Monday’s compatriot Michelle Alozie in the second half in a bid to spark a comeback, but the damage had already been done, and the Spirit cruised to a comprehensive win.

 

The result consolidates Washington Spirit’s second-place position in the NWSL standings, although they still trail runaway leaders Kansas City Current by 16 points.

 

Saturday night’s masterclass was not only a memorable individual display but also a bold reminder of Monday’s immense potential ahead of Nigeria’s upcoming international engagements. Her blistering form could prove crucial as the Super Falcons prepare for a crucial window of fixtures in the coming months.

Match Summary:

Washington Spirit 4-0 Houston Dash

Goals:

• Gift Monday (18’, 21’, 37’)

• [Fourth goal scorer if known — not mentioned in original report]

 

NWSL Standing:

• Washington Spirit: 2nd place

• Kansas City Current: 1st place (16 pts ahead)