Nigeria international and Washington Spirit forward, Gift Monday, has responded to her exclusion from the Super Falcons squad set to represent the country at the upcoming CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) tournament in Morocco.
The Port City News earlier reported that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on Friday released a 24-player squad for the competition.
The 23-year-old was left out of the list, which includes forward Asisat Oshoala, defender Ashleigh Plumptre, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, captain Rasheedat Ajibade, defenders Osinachi Ohale and Michelle Alozie, as well as midfielders Deborah Abiodun and Christy Ucheibe, among others.
Reacting in a statement on her X page, she remarked that ‘sometimes the hardest moments reveal the strength of the heart.’
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She acknowledged that while her omission was painful and difficult to accept, she harboured no grudges or resentment towards anyone.
The former FC Robo star added that she remains hale and hearty, fully fit, and still deeply passionate about the game and the Super Falcons.
“I have seen the official squad list for the upcoming WAFCON tournament, and yes, my name isn’t on it. 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
“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”, she said.
Gift joined the Washington Spirit on a three-year deal in March from Spanish side UD Tenerife, where she had spent the previous three years.
The former Bayelsa Queens forward was part of the Super Falcons squad at the last Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) held in Morocco in 2022, where Nigeria finished fourth.
She was also a member of the national team at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand, where Nigeria progressed to the knockout stage.
Washington Spirit currently sit fourth in the 14-team league table, having amassed 22 points from 12 matches. So far this season, they have won seven games, drawn one and lost four.
At the 13th edition of WAFCON, the Falcons have been drawn in Group B alongside Tunisia, Botswana and Algeria, as they bid to win the tournament for a record 10th time.
