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Gift Monday Strikes Again as Washington Spirit Outclass North Carolina Courage
By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde
The Washington Spirit continued their impressive form in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) with a commanding 3-1 win over North Carolina Courage, with Nigeria forward, Gift Monday once again playing the role of match-winner.
Monday’s second-half header — her fourth goal in a breakout NWSL season — sealed the result and extinguished any hopes of a Courage comeback, underscoring her rising reputation as one of the league’s deadliest finishers.
The Spirit started the match with high intensity, pressing their opponents and moving the ball with purpose. Their early dominance paid off in the 24th minute when Courtney Brown pounced on a defensive miscue to slot home the opener.
Just three minutes later, the hosts doubled their advantage. A well-orchestrated move saw Brittany Ratcliffe glide into space and calmly beat the Courage goalkeeper, putting the Spirit 2-0 up and firmly in control.
Despite the early blows, North Carolina Courage showed resilience. In the 32nd minute, Japanese midfielder M. Matsukubo offered a glimpse of hope with a sharp finish after a swift counterattack, reducing the deficit and shifting momentum slightly in the visitors’ favor.
For the remainder of the half, the Courage pushed for an equalizer, but the Spirit’s defense — led by the composed Amber Brooks and midfield stalwart Andi Sullivan — stood tall to preserve their lead heading into the break.
Sensing the need to reassert control, Spirit departing head coach who is set to join Olympique Lyon, Jonatan Giráldez made a key substitution early in the second half, bringing on the electric Gift Monday.
The move paid off just before the hour mark. In the 58th minute, Ashley Sanchez delivered a dangerous cross from the right flank. A deflection caused chaos in the box, and Monday was quickest to react, heading the ball home with trademark composure.
The goal deflated the Courage and reignited the home crowd, who celebrated as their team saw out the match with discipline and flair.
With the victory, Washington Spirit continue to rise up the NWSL standings — and with Gift Monday in this kind of form, few teams will relish facing them in the weeks ahead.
