Gift Monday Fires Washington Spirit Into NWSL Semi-Final

Gift Monday Fires Washington Spirit Into NWSL Semi-Final

Sampson Adedeji

Nigeria’s Gift Monday was the hero for Washington Spirit as her 73rd-minute strike set the tone for a dramatic 3-1 penalty shoot-out victory over Racing Louisville in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) quarter-final at Audi Field on Saturday night, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Racing, making their first-ever playoff appearance since joining the league in 2021, nearly pulled off a major upset after substitute Kayla Fischer scored a stoppage-time equaliser to cancel out Monday’s opener.

Fischer pounced on a precise long pass from Courtney Petersen and fired home a low right-footed finish in the 92nd minute to send the game into extra time.

Earlier in the first half, the Spirit thought they had taken the lead in the 17th minute when Rosemonde Kouassi found the net, but the goal was ruled out for offside after a VAR review.

The home side maintained control of possession and were eventually rewarded when Monday broke free from her marker to calmly slot home her ninth goal of the season a finish that reaffirmed her status as one of the league’s most clinical forwards.

Despite conceding late, Washington Spirit held their composure during the shoot-out. Hal Hershfelt, Ellie Morgan, and Riley Bernal all converted their spot-kicks, while Racing’s Ary Borges and Maddie DiGrande had their efforts saved before Elexa Jean missed to confirm their exit.

Bethany Balcer scored Racing’s only successful penalty. Goalkeeper Aubrey Kingsbury emerged as the heroine for the Spirit, producing two crucial saves to secure victory and continue her record of big-game performances.

The former NWSL Championship MVP once again rose to the occasion in front of a raucous home crowd.

Saturday’s defeat brought an end to a memorable campaign for Racing Louisville, who wrapped up their second season under coach Bez Yanez with 10 wins, 10 draws, and seven losses.

For the Spirit, the win represents another step toward redemption after last year’s semi-final heartbreak against Gotham FC.

They now advance to face the winner between Portland Thorns and San Diego Wave as they continue their quest for a second NWSL title.