Gift Monday’s remarkable ascent in the Spanish women’s football league reached a new peak in February 2024 as she clinched the prestigious Player of the Month award. Her consistent brilliance throughout the month, spearheading Tenerife’s attack and propelling them to sixth place in the league standings, earned her the recognition over a field of formidable competitors, including players from powerhouse clubs like Real Madrid and Barcelona. This achievement not only underscored her individual prowess but also marked a historic moment for Nigerian football, as Monday became only the second Nigerian player to receive the accolade, following in the footsteps of Rasheedat Ajibade, who won the inaugural award in September 2023. The award, presented to Monday amidst jubilant celebrations from her Tenerife teammates during a training session, solidified her status as a rising star in the world of women’s football.
Monday’s journey to this milestone has been characterized by unwavering dedication and a steady progression in her skills. Her goal-scoring prowess has been instrumental in Tenerife’s success, with 10 goals in 18 matches placing her firmly among the league’s top scorers. Remarkably, she sits just five goals behind Barcelona’s Ewa Pajor, the league’s leading scorer, and only two goals behind second-placed Edna Imade, showcasing her ability to compete with the very best in the league. Before a recent two-match goalless streak, Monday had embarked on an impressive run, finding the back of the net in six consecutive games, a testament to her consistency and lethal finishing ability.
This standout performance in the 2023-2024 season marks a significant leap in Monday’s career, representing her best season to date in Europe. Having joined UDG Tenerife in 2022 on a three-year deal from FC Robo in the Nigeria Women’s Football League, she has rapidly adapted to the demands of European football and steadily improved her game. The club’s faith in her potential was further solidified by a recent contract extension that will keep her at Tenerife until 2027, demonstrating their commitment to nurturing her talent and providing a platform for her continued growth.
Monday’s impact extends beyond her individual achievements, inspiring other aspiring Nigerian footballers and demonstrating the growing influence of Nigerian players on the global stage. Her success serves as a powerful testament to the talent emerging from Nigeria and highlights the potential for further growth and development within the country’s football ecosystem. This achievement not only elevates Monday’s profile but also shines a spotlight on the increasing competitiveness and recognition of African players in top-tier European leagues.
Reflecting on her journey and current form, Monday exudes a palpable sense of confidence and ambition. She acknowledges the significance of competing against some of the world’s best players in the Spanish league, viewing it as a crucial stepping stone in her development. Her statement, “Right now, I feel like one of the best players in the world,” reveals her self-assuredness and belief in her ability to reach the pinnacle of the sport. She embraces the ongoing process of improvement, recognizing that consistent hard work and dedication are essential to achieving her full potential.
The Player of the Month award is a significant milestone in Gift Monday’s burgeoning career. It signifies her arrival as a force to be reckoned with in the Spanish Liga F and underscores her potential to become a global football icon. Her journey, from the Nigerian Women’s Football League to the top echelons of European football, is a testament to her talent, resilience, and unwavering pursuit of excellence. As she continues to refine her skills and make her mark on the world stage, Gift Monday’s story is an inspiration to aspiring footballers and a source of pride for Nigerian football.
