AFCON 2025
Super Falcons head coach Justin Madugu has explained why Washington Spirit striker Gift Monday has not been receiving invitation to the national team despite her impressive form this year.
Gift Monday’s continual absence from the Super Falcons squad has not gone unnoticed as fans and the media continually express concern why she has been continually sidelined.
Gift Monday, despite her run of impressive outing for the her club side this year didn’t make it to the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in June.
Also, the 22-year-old forward didn’t get an invitation for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifier double-header against Benin Republic.
However, while addressing the media after Super Falcons 2-0 win over Benin Republic on Friday in Lome, Justin Madugu says he doesn’t have any personal grudge against Gift Monday contrary to public opinions.
Instead, he reiterated that the player is part of his Super Falcons plan for global success and will play a part of it.
However, Madugu went on to reveal that the competition in the forward line of the team is very fierce with Esther Okoronkwo, Chiwendu Ihezuo and the newly-invited, Joy Omewa.
“I have no issues at all with Gift. She is very much part of my plans and will surely play her part in our quest for global success. However, we currently have very strong competition for the forward position.”
Gift Monday has eight goals and two assists in 22 matches for Washington Spirit in the National Women’s Soccer League.
Meanwhile, on Real Sociedad forward, Edna Imade, Justin Madugu revealed that the player is yet to make up her mind on playing for Nigeria or not.
“She had an excellent season with Granada and is doing well at Real Sociedad. Despite our efforts, writing to her club and reaching out through players in Spain, she’s yet to make up her mind. Whatever she decides, we respect her decision.”
“I was reliably informed she was initially keen on playing for Nigeria. I just hope her reps aren’t making things difficult due to reported interest from Spain. We value her talent and would gladly give her the chance to represent her fatherland,” Madugu added.
Reports suggest that the Spanish national team are also keenly on the Edna Imade who has six goals in six matches in the Women’s Spanish La Liga this season.
