Super Falcons striker speaks on shock exclusion from WAFCON squad

Nigeria international Gift Monday has responded with grace and patriotism after her unexpected omission from the Super Falcons squad set to compete at the upcoming CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.

The official 24-player list, released on Friday by interim head coach Justin Madugu, raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike, with many shocked to find the in-form Washington Spirit forward left out; despite her impressive performances and clean bill of health.

🇳🇬✅🙏 pic.twitter.com/v6Y8ISnoUW

— Gift Monday (@GiftMonday21) June 21, 2025

Her response on X

A calm response to a shocking omission

Rather than react with frustration, the 23-year-old forward chose to take the high road. In a heartfelt post on her official X account, Monday shared her emotional yet dignified reaction:

“Sometimes the hardest moments reveal the strength of our hearts.

“I have seen the official squad list for the upcoming WAFCON tournament and yes, my name isn’t on it. While it hurts and is a tough pill to swallow, I want to make it clear that I hold no grudges, no resentment. I am hale and hearty, fully fit, and still deeply in love with the game and the green white green.”

Her message quickly resonated with fans across the country, many of whom lauded her maturity and loyalty to the national cause.

Still committed to the Green and White

Despite her absence from the pitch in Morocco, Monday pledged her full support for the Super Falcons.

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“Though I won’t be on the pitch with the team in Morocco, my heart will be there every step of the way. I remain fully committed to cheering my country from home, lifting every prayer and every shout of support for the badge we all fight so hard to represent.”

In a stirring conclusion to her statement, Monday addressed her teammates directly:

“To the incredible women who made the squad, go out there and make history. Let your passion roar. Let your pride show. You carry the hopes of millions including mine. I’ll be watching. I’ll be believing. I’ll be back. Come on Super Falcons, Let’s fly high.”

A rising star with a proven track record

Monday’s exclusion came as a surprise, particularly given her rise in the women’s game. In March 2024, she signed a three-year deal with Washington Spirit in the United States’ NWSL, joining from Spanish side UD Tenerife, where she had spent two seasons.

Before moving to Europe, she starred in Nigeria’s NWFL with Bayelsa Queens and FC Robo.

Internationally, Monday was a key part of Nigeria’s squad at the 2022 WAFCON in Morocco, where the Super Falcons finished fourth, and also featured at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, helping the team reach the knockout rounds.

READ ALSO: WAFCON Countdown: FIFA rankings confirm Super Falcons superiority

Club form and future prospects

Her current club, Washington Spirit, sit fifth in the 14-team NWSL standings with 22 points from 12 games; recording seven wins, one draw, and four losses. Monday remains a consistent contributor and a vital part of the team’s attacking options.

Although she won’t be part of the quest for Nigeria’s record-extending 10th WAFCON title, Gift Monday’s unwavering dedication to the Super Falcons’ cause has only strengthened her bond with fans, and reaffirmed her place in the future of Nigerian football.