Washington Spirit striker insists she’s fully fit despite snub
Gift Monday has publicly addressed her surprise omission from Nigeria’s squad for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), confirming she is not injured and expressing deep disappointment over the decision.
The in-form forward, who plays for Washington Spirit in the U.S. National Women’s Soccer League, was left out of the official list released by the Nigeria Football Federation — a move that has sparked debate across Nigerian football circles. Initial reports suggested her exclusion was due to injury, but Gift has now set the record straight.
In a heartfelt statement released on Monday, she said:
“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 omission is even more baffling given her current form. Gift Monday has scored 14 goals this season, more than any other striker named in the Super Falcons’ WAFCON squad. Despite her prolific run, she will not be part of the team travelling to Morocco.
“Though I won’t be on the pitch with the team in Morocco, my heart will be there every step of the way,” she added. “I remain fully committed to cheering my country from home… You carry the hopes of millions including mine.”
Her mature and gracious response has been widely praised by fans and pundits alike, though many continue to question the selection process.
“I’ll be watching. I’ll be believing. I’ll be back,” Gift concluded, signaling her determination to return to the national fold.
As the Super Falcons prepare to chase continental glory, the absence of one of Nigeria’s most in-form forwards will remain a talking point — not just for what it means for this tournament, but for what it suggests about team selection transparency going forward.
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