Gift Monday: Nigeria striker’s UDG Tenerife debut ends in defeat despite fine display

Nigeria forward Gift Monday put up a fine display on her first appearance for Spanish Liga F side, UDG Tenerife during her new team’s 1-0 defeat at home to Levante Las Planas on Sunday.

The Super Falcons striker resumed training with Granadilla Tenerife two weeks ago after completing her switch from Nigeria Women Football League Premiership side, FC Robo Queens and was handed a debut appearance on Sunday.

Irina Urine scored the winning goal for the visitors in the 31st minute to ensure a losing debut for Monday before the youngster kicked her first ball in Spanish football for Tenerife.

The two-time NWFL Premiership topscorer came on as a second half substitute for Belgian midfielder, Jassina Blom and put up a fighting display to help her team earn a point but her efforts proved abortive as Rita Chikwelu’s side claimed the important away win.

Compatriot Chikwelu who started the match for Las Planas, saw 65 minutes of action before giving way to Natalie Rose Muth, while Nigeria defender, Onome Ebi didn’t make the match-day squad for Las Planas.

Granadilla Tenerife occupy the 12th position with 12 points after 11 games and will end the year with a clash against Sporting Huelva on December 18.

The win saw Las Planas moved to 13th spot with 11 points after 12 games. The team will next face Villareal on December 17, 2022, with its last league game of the year.