Super Falcons forward Gift Monday has emerged as one of the standout performers in Spain’s top-tier women’s league, Liga F, after being nominated for the prestigious Player of the Month award for February. The 23-year-old striker has been recognized for her exceptional performances with Tenerife, where she consistently showcased her goal-scoring prowess and technical brilliance on the field.
Monday’s nomination is a testament to her growing influence in Liga F, a league that continues to attract some of the best female footballers from around the world. Her ability to deliver crucial goals and lead by example has not only bolstered Tenerife’s position in the standings but also cemented her status as one of the rising stars in the competition.
During February, Monday scored two important goals in three league appearances for Eder Maestre’s side, demonstrating her knack for finding the back of the net at critical moments. Her first strike came against Sevilla, helping Tenerife secure a valuable result in what was a tightly contested match. Just days later, she added another goal in their encounter with Valencia, further solidifying her reputation as a reliable finisher under pressure. Both matches also saw her international teammate Rinsola Babajide contribute with goals, showcasing the synergy between the Nigerian duo within the team.
This season, Monday has already registered an impressive tally of 10 goals in 17 league appearances for Tenerife, making her one of the most prolific forwards in Liga F. Only Barcelona’s Ewa Pajor (15 goals) and Granada’s Edna Imade (12 goals), both seasoned veterans in the league, have outscored her so far. However, Monday’s consistency and youthful exuberance make her a formidable contender for top honors in the near future.
The recognition extends beyond just her individual achievements; it highlights how players from Nigeria are increasingly making waves in European competitions. Monday’s journey from FC Robo Queens in Nigeria to competing at such a high level in Spain reflects the global reach and talent pool of African football. Her success serves as inspiration for aspiring young players across the continent, proving that dedication and hard work can open doors to elite leagues worldwide.
Competing alongside Monday for the Player of the Month award are several other distinguished talents, including Real Madrid’s Alba Redondo, Barcelona’s Caroline Hansen, Deportivo La Coruna’s Ainhoa Marin, Athletic Club’s Ane Azkona, Granada’s Ari Mingueza, and Eibar’s Elba Verges. Each of these players brings unique qualities to their respective teams, ensuring that the voting process will be fiercely competitive.
Alba Redondo, for instance, has been instrumental in guiding Real Madrid to the upper echelons of Liga F, while Barcelona’s Caroline Hansen remains one of the most feared attackers in the league. Meanwhile, Ainhoa Marin has played a key role in Deportivo La Coruna’s resurgence this season, and Ari Mingueza has been vital for Granada’s attacking efforts. Despite the stiff competition, Monday’s inclusion among such illustrious names speaks volumes about her current form and potential.
As the race for the award heats up, fans and analysts alike are taking note of Monday’s contributions to Tenerife’s campaign. Her versatility, combined with her physical attributes and tactical awareness, makes her a complete player capable of thriving in various situations. Whether it’s holding up play as a lone striker or creating opportunities for teammates, she consistently delivers results that align with her club’s objectives.
For Tenerife, having a player like Monday in their ranks represents a significant boost. In a league dominated by giants such as Barcelona and Real Madrid, smaller clubs often rely on the brilliance of individual players to compete effectively. Monday’s performances provide exactly that spark, giving Tenerife hope of achieving greater heights in the latter stages of the season.
Beyond her club commitments, Monday also carries the hopes of her country as part of the Super Falcons, Nigeria’s storied women’s national team. Known for its rich history and numerous successes, including multiple African Women’s Cup of Nations titles, the Super Falcons are counting on players like Monday to maintain their dominance on the continental stage. Her exposure to top-level European football will undoubtedly enhance her skills and prepare her for upcoming challenges with the national team.
Looking ahead, Monday faces an exciting period in her career. If selected as Liga F’s Player of the Month for February, it would mark a significant milestone in her burgeoning career. Regardless of the outcome, however, her nomination underscores her emergence as a key figure in women’s football, not just in Spain but globally. As she continues to refine her craft and adapt to the demands of professional soccer, there is little doubt that bigger accomplishments await her in the years to come.
In addition to her personal ambitions, Monday’s rise offers broader implications for women’s football in Africa. Her achievements highlight the importance of nurturing local talent and providing pathways for players to showcase their abilities on the international stage. Initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure, coaching standards, and competitive opportunities across the continent can help produce more players like Monday, who can compete successfully in Europe and beyond.
As the Liga F season progresses, all eyes will be on Gift Monday and her teammates as they strive to build momentum heading into the final stretch. With each passing game, she inches closer to realizing her full potential, leaving no stone unturned in pursuit of excellence. For now, her nomination for Player of the Month stands as a proud moment for herself, her club, and her nation—a fitting reward for her relentless drive and passion for the beautiful game.
